Internet Disruptions in Pakistan: A Blow to Freelancers, IT Exports, and the Digital Economy
Posted on December 6, 2024 by News Desk

In recent weeks, internet disruptions across Pakistan have wreaked havoc, impacting everyday users, freelancers, and businesses alike. Reports of delayed WhatsApp messages, failed uploads of files and photos, and issues with sending voice notes have left many frustrated. However, the implications of these connectivity issues extend far beyond inconvenience, posing a significant challenge to Pakistan’s IT export sector and the broader digital economy.
Impact on Freelancers and Businesses
Freelancers, who form the backbone of Pakistan’s rapidly growing IT export sector, have been hit particularly hard by these disruptions. As ICT expert Kapeel Kumar points out:
“From students struggling with online classes to businesses facing operational challenges, the consequences are far-reaching. The IT export sector, a key driver of our economy, is also feeling the strain as connectivity issues hinder productivity and international collaboration.”
Similarly, entrepreneurs and small business owners report that these outages are affecting their daily operations. Muhammad Faisal, CEO of Zynergy Solutions, explains:
“Frequent disconnections impact our operations, from customer communication to system monitoring. Reliable internet in sectors like ours is essential for sustaining growth and innovation.”
Pakistan’s Ambitious 5Es Plan at Stake
The ongoing disruptions pose a severe threat to Pakistan’s ambitious 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan (2024-29). This plan aims to increase IT exports by $60 billion and foster a robust digital ecosystem by producing 75,000 IT graduates annually, establishing 100 software parks, and expanding 5G access.
However, analysts warn that without a reliable digital infrastructure, these goals may remain unattainable. ICT analyst Waqas Ghani elaborates:
“Global platforms are flagging Pakistani service providers, and businesses are increasingly moving away from hiring them. This isn’t just a loss of current income, but a loss of future opportunities.”
The Role of Infrastructure and Planning
Experts have also highlighted the mismatch between infrastructure development and the growing demand for connectivity. P@SHA Chairman Sajjad Mustafa Syed draws parallels to other sectors, such as electricity, to underline the core issue:
“We faced similar challenges with gas and electricity in the past. The underlying issue has always been the lack of central planning.”
Despite efforts to address these disruptions, the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) notes that challenges persist. In a survey among P@SHA members, 99% reported experiencing internet disruptions, affecting both on-site and remote teams.
A Call for Action
For Pakistan to maintain its position as a growing hub for IT services and freelancing, experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive strategy to address these recurring issues. Reliable internet connectivity is not just a luxury; it is an essential infrastructure requirement for fostering innovation, productivity, and economic growth.
As the country strives to achieve its $1 trillion economy goal, ensuring stable digital infrastructure will be crucial for empowering freelancers, supporting businesses, and boosting the IT export sector.
Conclusion
The ongoing internet disruptions in Pakistan serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and industry leaders. With the IT sector growing at an annual rate of 30%, bridging the gap between demand and infrastructure is more important than ever. A robust digital framework is key to unlocking Pakistan’s full potential and achieving its vision for a thriving digital economy.
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