Economic Impact of Internet Disruptions in Pakistan: A Call for 5G Implementation
Internet disruptions in Pakistan have resulted in $1.62 billion in economic losses in 2024, primarily due to political events affecting 82.9 million users. The IT sector is urging the government to prioritize 5G implementation to combat slow internet speeds. This will help boost the economy and improve competitiveness.
The persistent internet disruptions in Pakistan have had a staggering economic impact, amounting to approximately $1.62 billion in losses as reported by Top10VPN.com. This figure positions Pakistan as suffering the highest economic repercussions from internet outages worldwide in 2024, overtaking those of conflict-ridden countries such as Sudan and Myanmar. These disruptions, which resulted in nearly 9,735 hours of downtime, were primarily linked to significant political events like elections and protests, affecting over 82 million users.
The growing dependence on digital communication in Pakistan has highlighted the critical need for stable internet services. The Information Technology sector is particularly vulnerable, with professionals calling for the swift adoption of 5G technology to mitigate the adverse effects of slow internet speeds. The challenges plaguing Pakistan’s internet infrastructure include government-imposed restrictions such as throttling and blackouts, which inhibit economic growth and the viability of the IT sector amid global competitiveness.
In conclusion, the dire state of internet accessibility and speed in Pakistan necessitates urgent governmental action to modernize its digital infrastructure. Industry leaders argue that expediting the 5G rollout and enhancing connectivity could potentially safeguard the growth of the IT sector, protecting it from crippling economic losses. With increasing pressure to improve internet services, the call for effective policies aimed at reducing disruptions is vital for the nation’s economic prosperity.
Original Source: profit.pakistantoday.com.pk
