Internet Shutdown Causes Massive Losses

Mobile broadband services have been suspended across Pakistan since Tuesday on orders of Ministry of Interior. According to the Ministry, this is being done to curb rumors around the arrest of Former Prime Minister ImranKhan. The suspension has had a devastating affect on the economy of Pakistan and this is no secret that the country is already in an economic crunch.

According to sources, telecom operators alone have incurred an estimated revenue loss of PKR 820 million, while the government has lost around PKR 287 million in tax revenue in under 24 hours. Additionally, since mobile phones and telecom as an industry is the foundation of many sectors, digital citizens who depend on apps like Daraz, JazzCash, Easypaisa, Careem Pakistan, InDriver, foodpanda, and the likes have suffered a significant loss in earnings.

In addition to the security situation, this suspension has caused immense inconvenience to general public which should be noted by relevant authorities and the decision to resume mobile broadband and other social media apps should be taken immediately.