Minister Shaza Fatima announces 100% functionality of Data Services across Pakistan

Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima has reassured the public that data services are fully functional across Pakistan, with all apps operating at 100% capacity. In a recent interview, Fatima emphasized that there are no industry-wide blockages in the country, although she acknowledged that the number of mobile towers is insufficient, and efforts are underway to improve this infrastructure.

Fatima explained that when security concerns arise, the Ministry of Interior provides instructions to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). She also addressed the recent closure of the platform “X”, stating that it is used by less than 2% of the population in Pakistan. Fatima clarified that this closure does not equate to a ban on freedom of expression, emphasizing that citizens can still express themselves on various digital platforms, including YouTube and Facebook.

The Minister of State for IT also highlighted the pressing issue of cybersecurity, revealing that Pakistan faces hundreds of cyberattacks daily. Fatima stressed that cybersecurity is a top priority, and significant progress has been made in this area compared to the previous year. She attributed this progress to the thriving IT industry in Pakistan, which has seen exports exceed $3 billion.

Fatima’s statements come at a time when the Pakistani government is actively working to strengthen the country’s IT and telecom sector. With initiatives like the Digital Pakistan Policy and the National Fiberization Policy, the government aims to boost e-governance, cybersecurity, and entrepreneurship.