Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT and Telecom, vowed on Sunday to overhaul Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, aiming to restore optimal speeds and enhance the telecom sector’s foundation.
In an interview with a private news channel, she stated, “My ministry is fully committed to ensuring smooth operations in the industry. Given the recent surge in cyberattacks, we are on high alert and taking swift, decisive actions to strengthen our digital defenses.”
Khawaja also emphasized the government’s dedication to safeguarding the IT and telecom sectors, calling it a top priority. To achieve this, the government is upgrading existing systems and focusing on critical areas such as increasing tower intensity, expanding broadband internet access, and addressing cybersecurity challenges. These efforts are designed to improve coverage, stimulate economic growth, and create a secure online environment for citizens.
In response to a question, the minister announced that the Ministry of Interior will direct the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to investigate and resolve issues citizens face when sending videos while ensuring 100% internet speed remains unaffected.
Khawaja shared that if any issues arise, the Interior Minister contacts the PTA for assistance. While acknowledging the challenges, she reassured the public that the government is working diligently to resolve them.
She concluded by stressing that every citizen has the right to express their views, and while digital platforms may occasionally be unavailable, these temporary disruptions do not infringe on citizens’ freedom of speech.
