ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman, Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman, informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication that recent internet disruptions were caused by damage to a submarine cable. The committee meeting, chaired by MNA Syed Amin ul Haq, was assured by the PTA Chairman that repair work is underway, with the issue expected to be resolved by August 27.
In addition to internet disruptions, the committee discussed weak signals affecting social media apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Addressing concerns about the installation of new software, the PTA Chairman clarified that no new firewall was being installed but rather an upgrade to the existing Web Management System (WMS) to improve its functionality. The committee requested detailed technical specifications of the WMS upgrade to ensure full transparency.
The committee also directed the Ministry of IT to estimate the financial losses incurred by freelancers and private companies due to slow internet speeds, emphasizing the need to assess the economic impact.
Regarding the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, the PTA was asked to consider regional pricing and ensure a reasonable auction amount, following concerns about the high bid of $29 million in 2020.
The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of the CEOs of Pakistan Telecommunications Corporation Limited (PTCL) and the Special Communication Organization (SCO), demanding written explanations for their non-attendance and urging adherence to the rules governing committee proceedings.
The remaining agenda items were postponed until the next meeting.
