LAHORE, Pakistan -- People in Pakistan reported a much slower internet over the past several days with some experts on Monday estimating its speed falling to almost half its usual capacity, affecting millions of users, disrupting businesses and drawing nationwide criticism despite authorities denying being behind it.

Since February, internet users have either been completely blocked from accessing social media platforms or granted limited access following a government crackdown before the Feb. 8 parliamentary elections . However, internet speeds have now drastically slowed down. Individuals are unable to swiftly send emails or utilize the messaging service WhatsApp, with professionals like businessmen and doctors reporting negative impacts on their daily work, particularly in receiving important documents and medical reports.

The Pakistan Software House Association, representing companies specializing in information technology, issued a statement this week warning that the internet disruptions could lead to a $300 million loss for the country’s already fragile economy. The association also accused the government of “hastily implementing a national firewall,” resulting in slow internet speeds.

Shahzad Arshad, an internet service provider in Lahore, the capital of eastern Punjab province, stated that his business depends on high-speed internet and “now it’s impossible to connect with international clients or exchange files, causing significant disruptions to my work.”

Chaudhry Arif, a digital technology expert who also operates a software company in the capital, Islamabad, reported that internet speeds were 40% slower compared to the previous week, and at times, even slower by 60 to 80%. He added that the situation had not shown any signs of improvement.

On Sunday, Pakistan’s Minister for Information and Technology Shiza Fatima asserted that the government was not responsible for the slow internet speeds and that no restrictions had been imposed. She attributed the slow connection speeds of some phones to the use of VPNs. Several individuals have dismissed Fatima's explanation.

Umayr Hassan, a software developer, contends that authorities should unequivocally state whether the unstable connectivity is a consequence of security measures. “The government needs to provide clarity... a logical explanation, rather than simply citing the use of VPNs.”

The minister declared that authorities are “tirelessly working” to identify the root cause of the issue, while acknowledging the government's ongoing efforts to upgrade its systems in an attempt to bolster cybersecurity.

Fareeha Aziz, a digital rights advocate, calls for the government to provide a transparent explanation for the sluggish internet speeds. “The government claims they are not responsible for the slowdowns. Then who is?” she inquired.

Pakistan boasts 110 million internet users, representing nearly half its population. Supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan have actively used social media platforms to voice their opposition to the government led by Shehbaz Sharif, who assumed office following a vote of no confidence in Parliament in 2022. Khan is currently incarcerated, facing a multitude of legal accusations, and the nation has been in a state of turmoil ever since.

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Associated Press writer Asim Tanveer contributed reporting to this story from Multan, Pakistan.