Noman Said, a prominent IT exporter in Pakistan, has strongly criticized the sudden and widespread shutdown of internet services in the country during the elections, citing significant disruptions and financial losses for the IT industry.
According to Said, the internet is essential for conducting business in the IT sector, serving as a vital component for communication, operations, and connectivity. He emphasized that the current political turmoil has brought the IT industry to a halt, exacerbating existing challenges such as high business costs and non-competitive market conditions.
Demanding an immediate restoration of internet services for the IT industry, Said highlighted the diminishing quality of internet services in the country, particularly affecting data services. He stressed the importance of timely delivery and credibility in the international IT market, expressing concerns that prolonged disruptions could lead to the loss of clients and orders.
As many IT professionals are working from home due to security concerns during the elections, Said urged the Caretaker Prime Minister to intervene and instruct the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) to promptly resume internet services. He also called for support from Dr. Umar Saif, the Caretaker Minister of IT & Telecom, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and Tech Destination Pakistan administrations to advocate for the restoration of services.