Pakistan has been facing complaints about slow internet speeds, and the government has addressed these concerns. Officials clarified that there is no system in place to deliberately shut down or slow down internet traffic. Instead, a Web Monitoring System (WMS) is used to manage objectionable content online.
The Cabinet Division Minister explained in a written reply to the National Assembly that the WMS was deployed to block harmful or illegal websites, including X (formerly Twitter). This system is funded by telecom operators themselves, without using public money, and helps control grey traffic and maintain internet security.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication had issued guidelines back in 2009 for telecom services closure during national security situations. Under this process, requests for service closure go through the Ministry of Interior and are then implemented by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) via telecom operators.
The WMS has been in operation since 2008 and is periodically updated to improve bandwidth monitoring. While it blocks millions of pornographic websites and content from foreign sources spreading misinformation or cyber-attacks, it does not throttle internet speeds. The PTA is legally allowed to remove illegal online content under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, and the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content Rules, 2021, ensure proper oversight and safeguards.
Why Internet Might Be Slow
Although the government says it does not slow down the internet, some factors affecting speed include:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth Limits | Heavy usage during peak hours can naturally slow internet speeds. |
| Network Congestion | Too many users on a single network can reduce speed. |
| Infrastructure | Older cables and equipment may cause delays in service. |
| Online Monitoring | Systems like WMS monitor traffic, which may add minor delays, though not intentionally slowing internet. |
| External Cyber Threats | Blocking malicious websites or misinformation campaigns can temporarily affect internet performance. |
FAQs
Q1: Does the government shut down the internet in Pakistan?
No, the government has confirmed that no system is installed to shut down or throttle internet services.
Q2: What is the Web Monitoring System (WMS)?
WMS is a system used by telecom operators to block objectionable content and control illegal internet traffic. It does not intentionally slow down the internet.
Q3: Who funds the WMS?
The system is funded entirely by telecom operators like PTCL and mobile providers. No public funds are used.
Q4: How many websites are blocked using WMS?
Approximately 6.5 million pornographic websites, along with content spreading misinformation or cyber-attacks, have been blocked.
Q5: Can WMS block social media platforms?
Yes, platforms like X (formerly Twitter) can be blocked under government direction if needed for national security or other legal reasons.
Conclusion
The slow internet experienced by users in Pakistan is not a result of intentional throttling by the government. Instead, monitoring systems like the WMS focus on blocking illegal or harmful content. While this may create minor delays, the main factors behind slow internet remain high traffic, infrastructure limitations, and bandwidth usage. The government assures that these measures are legal, monitored, and aimed at maintaining a safer online environment rather than reducing internet speed.
Rana Shahriyar is a dedicated content writer and contributor at 8171 Rashan Program. With a strong interest in social welfare programs and government initiatives, his work focuses on delivering clear, reliable, and easy to understand information for the public.