WhatsApp Users in Pakistan Face Severe Media Download Issues Amid Technical Glitch

WhatsApp users in Pakistan are experiencing significant difficulties in downloading media files due to a technical glitch. The disruption has affected millions, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority attributing the problem to a possible technical issue. Concerns grew following previous internet disruptions due to damaged fibre optic cables.

WhatsApp users and other media application users in Pakistan are grappling with technical difficulties, reporting issues in downloading audio, video messages, and pictures, ARY News has reported. Users are encountering error messages stating, 'Couldn't download the document. Try again. If the problem keeps happening, try connecting to Wi-Fi.'

The service disruption has hindered users' ability to access and share content on the popular messaging app, as per ARY News. Despite the widespread issues, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has downplayed the disruption, attributing it to a possible 'technical glitch.'

A 2024 report by the World Population Review highlights that Pakistan has 52.3 million WhatsApp users. Earlier this year, internet users faced significant challenges when the fibre optic cable linking Singapore to Pakistan and Europe was damaged, affecting internet access across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Details indicate that the fibre optic cable was damaged near Indonesia, causing significant internet disruption. Additionally, recent internet service disruptions coincided with the Muharram processions, as the Punjab government requested a 'temporary suspension' of social media platforms from July 6-11, Dawn reported.

The Punjab province's home department has sent a letter to Pakistan's interior ministry recommending the suspension of popular social media applications such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, according to ANI.

(With inputs from agencies.)