In a reassuring announcement, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that internet services will remain operational on February 8, the day of the upcoming elections. This declaration dismisses earlier concerns of a pre-planned disruption, providing stability and connectivity during a crucial national event.
Despite previous assurances from government officials regarding internet functionality on election day, Pakistan has experienced intermittent service disruptions due to various factors, including security concerns. Recognizing the potential economic impact of such interruptions, the decision to keep the internet running carries significant importance.
The economic consequences of a single day of internet shutdown are substantial, with telecom companies incurring costs amounting to Rs 940 million. This, in turn, results in a loss of Rs 329 million in taxation for the national exchequer. Considering that telecommunication companies generated approximately Rs 572 billion from cellular services in the previous year, the financial implications of a disrupted internet service become evident.
Reflecting on the events of May 2023 when the country faced an internet shutdown amid political unrest, an official from the Pakistan Freelancers Association highlighted the staggering daily loss of nearly $2 million in the IT freelance industry. Beyond monetary setbacks, software houses risk damaging their international reputation, and thousands of ride-hailing and delivery service providers witness interruptions in their daily earnings, exacerbating the unemployment rate, which stood at 9.6% in 2022-23.
As the nation gears up for the elections, the assurance of continuous internet services not only fosters a conducive environment for democratic processes but also safeguards the economy from the far-reaching repercussions of service disruptions. This commitment is a vital step towards maintaining stability, enabling businesses to thrive, and ensuring uninterrupted communication during a critical juncture in the country’s governance.
