Submarine cable fault disrupts internet service in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: A fault in the global submarine cable SMW4 disrupted internet services in several areas of Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reported in early hours of Tuesday.

The SMW4 is one of the seven submarine cables connecting Pakistan to the global internet infrastructure. It experienced a fault that ended up affecting broadband services in several parts of the country.

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The PTA announced that teams were actively working to identify and resolve the issue. The disruption has led to slower internet speeds and connectivity issues in affected regions.

Authorities are also “closely monitoring” the situation until normal broadband service is restored.

How submarine cables facilitate global internet connectivity

Submarine cables connect the entire world through internet connectivity by transmitting vast amounts of data between continents via light signals. The underwater cables are sophisticated fiber-optic bundles encased in protective layers. They are laid on the ocean floor to withstand the underwater environment.

The functioning of submarine cables involves complex infrastructure and coordination among multiple stakeholders including telecommunication companies, governments, and international organisations.

Submarine line terminal equipment (SLTE) periodically amplifies signals to maintain their integrity over thousands of kilometers.

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Submarine cable faults are caused by physical damage from ship anchors or natural disasters. This can disrupt internet services for entire regions or countries dependent on these cables.

Repairing the faults involves specialised ships and equipment to locate and retrieve the damaged sections. It is a process that can vary significantly in duration due to the operational complexity and vast distances involved.