Islamabad, Pakistan – Internet users across Pakistan are experiencing significant slowdowns due to technical faults in two of the country’s key submarine cables, as reported by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). These undersea cables serve as critical conduits for Pakistan’s global internet connectivity.
The first disruption occurred in the AAE-1 cable, which suffered a 250-gigabit outage between Iran and Qatar. Simultaneously, the SMW-4 cable, which carries 1.5 terabits of data, faced issues near Karachi, resulting in additional strain on the country’s internet infrastructure.
To mitigate the impact, internet service providers are rerouting traffic through alternative cable systems. However, users have reported disruptions in browsing speeds, online meetings, and streaming services. Businesses dependent on consistent internet access are particularly affected.
Submarine cables, often spanning thousands of kilometers under the ocean, are susceptible to damage from natural events, such as earthquakes, and human activities, including fishing and anchoring. The PTA has assured citizens that repair work is underway, with full restoration expected in the coming weeks.
With internet reliance at an all-time high, experts emphasize the need for diversified connectivity routes and investments in digital infrastructure to reduce vulnerabilities. This incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of modern communications networks.
