Pakistan is bracing for potential slowdowns and service interruptions in internet speeds for the next few weeks due to damage to two major undersea cables near Yemen. These cables are crucial to the country’s connection to the global internet.
IT Secretary Zarrar Hasham confirmed that four to five cables in the region were severed, resulting in disruptions to internet quality across Pakistan. Many users have already reported issues with browsing, video streaming, and online communication.
In response, authorities have shifted bandwidth to alternative networks as a temporary solution. However, Hasham clarified that this adjustment can’t fully satisfy the increased demand for internet services.
The damaged cables are expected to take time to repair, as specialized ships are needed for the task and are not immediately available. Hasham stated that it may take four to five weeks before normal services resume.
The issue was discussed in a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee in Islamabad, where members raised concerns about the negative impact on businesses, education, and communication, as millions rely on stable internet for their daily activities.
Experts highlighted that while undersea cable damage is not rare, this event emphasizes Pakistan’s dependence on a limited number of critical links for global connectivity. They stressed the importance of diversifying internet infrastructure and investing in more resilient networks to minimize future risks.
Until the repairs are completed, users should expect continued slow speeds, especially during peak hours.
