POS transactions drop by 50% in Pakistan due to internet shutdown
Pakistan
The government blocked the internet service after Imran Khan's arrest
LAHORE (Web Desk) - According to data released on Thursday, Point-of-sale (POS) transactions routed through main digital payment systems dropped by around 50% in Pakistan after former prime minister Imran Khan's arrest ignited countrywide protests and authorities shut down mobile internet services.
The two largest payments system operators, 1LINK and Habib Bank Ltd (HBL), stated that the reason for the slump was primarily the mobile broadband suspension, in addition to lower footfall at the limited number of stores opened due to the political turmoil.
The sudden disruption of internet service in several cities across Pakistan on Tuesday caused difficulties for internet users and concerns for businesses. The services of popular social media websites such as YouTube, Facebook and Twitter were blocked in many cities, leading to further frustration among users. Moreover, internet services in various other cities were also affected, making it difficult for people to carry out their daily activities.
The government blocked the internet service after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). PTI workers staged protests in several cities across the country, leading to clashes with the police and many people being injured and arrested.
Businesses are also facing difficulties due to the internet shutdown. Many companies are now finding it challenging to communicate with their customers and suppliers and some are even facing the prospect of having to shut down their operations temporarily. Small business owners, in particular, are worried about the financial implications of this disruption and are urging the government to take swift action to restore the internet service.
