Gilgit-Baltistan, a picturesque region in northern Pakistan, is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. However, beneath this beauty lies a pressing issue that affects the daily lives of its residents—especially freelancers, businesspeople, and online workers. The region suffers from unreliable and low-quality internet service, a problem that is particularly severe in areas like Tehsil Ishkoman.
Struggling Freelancers and Online Workers
Freelancers and online workers in Gilgit-Baltistan rely heavily
on the internet for their livelihoods. They work in various fields such as
graphic design, content writing, software development, and digital marketing.
For them, a stable and fast internet connection is not just a luxury but a
necessity. Unfortunately, the current state of internet service in many parts
of Gilgit-Baltistan is far from ideal.
In Tehsil Ishkoman, for instance, the internet service is often
slow and unreliable. Freelancers find it difficult to meet deadlines due to
frequent disconnections and slow speeds. This not only hampers their
productivity but also impacts their income. Clients from around the world
expect timely delivery of work, and poor internet service puts local
freelancers at a disadvantage compared to those in more connected regions.
Businesspeople Facing Major Hurdles
Local businesspeople also face significant challenges due to
inadequate internet services. In today’s digital age, businesses depend on the
internet for various operations such as online sales, marketing, and
communication with clients and suppliers. The poor quality of internet in
Gilgit-Baltistan means that business owners often struggle to maintain a robust
online presence.
For example, businesses trying to sell products online face
difficulties updating their websites or managing online orders. Marketing
efforts through social media and other digital platforms are also hampered by
the slow internet speeds. Consequently, local businesses are unable to compete
effectively on a national or international level, limiting their growth and
profitability.
High Costs for Low-Quality Service
One of the most frustrating aspects for the residents of
Gilgit-Baltistan is the high cost of internet service relative to its quality.
Despite paying hefty amounts for internet packages, the service provided is
often subpar. This is especially true in remote areas like the Chatorkhand
Valley in Tehsil Ishkoman.
The internet packages available are expensive, yet the speeds
and reliability fall short of expectations. Users often experience long
downtimes, and the customer service provided by internet companies is usually
unresponsive. This disparity between cost and quality leaves residents feeling
frustrated and neglected.
Specific Issues in Chatorkhand Valley
Chatorkhand Valley, a serene and beautiful area in Tehsil
Ishkoman, is one of the regions hit hardest by these internet issues. A major
problem here is the lack of power backup at the local internet exchange. This
means that when there is a power outage—a frequent occurrence in the valley—the
internet goes down completely.
For the residents of Chatorkhand Valley, this creates a myriad
of problems. Freelancers miss out on crucial work hours, students are unable to
attend online classes, and businesses come to a standstill. The absence of
internet during power outages disrupts daily life and adds to the already
challenging living conditions in this remote area.
The Need for Better Infrastructure
The issues faced by Gilgit-Baltistan’s residents highlight the
urgent need for better internet infrastructure in the region. Improved internet
services would not only enhance the quality of life for the people but also
open up new economic opportunities.
Recommendations for Improvement
Investment in Infrastructure: The government and private sector
should invest in upgrading the internet infrastructure. This includes
installing more robust and reliable equipment and ensuring there is adequate
power backup at all internet exchanges.
Affordable and Fair Pricing: Internet service providers should
offer packages that provide good value for money. The cost of internet service
should be proportional to its quality.
Reliable Customer Support: Improved customer service is
essential. Service providers need to be responsive and resolve issues quickly
to minimize downtime for users.
Community Involvement: Involving local communities in the
planning and development of internet services can help ensure that the unique
needs of different areas are met effectively.
Conclusion
The internet issues in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly in Tehsil
Ishkoman and the Chatorkhand Valley, are a significant barrier to the region's
development. Freelancers, businesspeople, and online workers bear the brunt of
these problems, facing daily challenges that hinder their productivity and
growth. By addressing these issues through better infrastructure, fair pricing,
and improved customer support, Gilgit-Baltistan can unlock its full potential
and provide its residents with the opportunities they deserve.
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