PTA clarifies submarine cable damage, not VPNs, behind internet slowdowns

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has dismissed claims that recent internet slowdowns across the country are owing to the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

This clarification came during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication on Tuesday.

The PTA’s statement contradicts earlier remark by IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja who in August, had attributed internet slowdowns to the widespread use of VPNs.

PTA officials emphasised that VPN usage does not affect internet speed and encouraged users to report specific areas with connectivity issues for further investigation.

The meeting also covered various topics, including concerns about internet speed, updates on the Personal Data Protection Bill, and issues related to PTCL’s property policies. A committee member criticised the PTA for not meeting its August 31 target to improve internet speeds.

The PTA explained that earlier disruptions were due to problems with submarine cables which have now been repaired. It was noted that Pakistan is served by seven submarine cables all of which have undergone maintenance following weather-related damage.

The IT Ministry provided an update on the Personal Data Protection Bill stating that the draft has been completed and shared with stakeholders for review.

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