In recent days, Pakistan has witnessed an unexplained and abrupt restriction of access to the internet and social media sites, with authorities failing to provide prior notice or clarification. The economic ramifications of this issue are undeniable.
The impact of internet closure and restrictions extends across various sectors. Online cab companies are reported to face a staggering 97% decline in business, while food delivery services experience a substantial 75% reduction in their operations during such periods.
The telecom industry emerges as the hardest-hit, incurring losses of approximately Rs940 million within a single day of internet closure. The suspension of 3G and 4G services alone contributes to a substantial loss of Rs450 million for telecom companies.
Furthermore, online cab companies and food delivery services suffer financial setbacks of up to Rs30 million and Rs150 million, respectively, in a day. The government’s exchequer also takes a hit, losing around Rs330 million within a 24-hour period.
This matter reached the Sindh High Court on Monday, where Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi expressed strong dissatisfaction with the internet closure, particularly during elections. When the state’s counsel attributed the restriction to security reasons, the judge asserted that the public comprehends the underlying reasons and criticized the government for inadequate planning. He emphasized that the internet closure was bringing international ridicule to Pakistan.
