Internet Disruption in Pakistan as Five Submarine Cables Cut Off Yemen Coast; Repairs May Take Up to Five Weeks
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is facing internet slowdowns after multiple submarine cables were cut near the coast of Yemen, affecting two of the country’s key international connections. According to the Secretary of IT and Telecom, four to five cables were damaged, and repairs could take four to five weeks.
He explained that special ships are required for restoration work. Meanwhile, companies have rerouted bandwidth through alternate routes to minimize disruption. The secretary added that three new submarine cables, which will directly connect Pakistan to Europe, are expected to become operational within 12 to 18 months, with agreements for their installation already finalized.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Syed Aminul Haque, held at the Islamabad IT Park. Committee member Sadiq Memon raised concerns over persistent internet disruptions despite claims of new cables being added.
The Secretary clarified that the crisis was due to multiple cable cuts near Yemen and the unstable regional situation, which has complicated restoration efforts.
**Islamabad IT Park Project Update**
During the meeting, IT Secretary Zarar Hashim briefed the committee on the Islamabad IT Park project, funded by South Korea with a \$78 million loan provided in 2017. The loan includes a 10-year grace period and a 30-year repayment plan at a 0.5% markup.
The park is being developed to host IT companies and boost exports, with similar projects underway in Islamabad and Karachi. However, delays due to heavy rains, import restrictions, taxes, and frequent changes in project managers have slowed progress.
Korean company representatives informed the committee that while most of the work would be completed by December 31, 2025, the full commissioning of the Islamabad Technology Park is expected by February 2026.
Chairman Aminul Haque stressed that the official deadline remains October 31, warning the company of further “letters of dissatisfaction” and possible blacklisting if delays continue.
