Many people have been expressing their frustrations with the sluggish Internet speeds, recently. Social media platforms are flooded with complaints with subscribers dissatisfied with both mobile networks and broadband services. People said that the slow Internet connection has been hampering their online activities and even in following the National Assembly Elections Primary Round public debates.
The timing of these connectivity issues is of particular concern as the country prepares for the National Assembly Elections.
Most people rely on social media to get news and information, including the public debate.
“Everybody is excited about the elections. But if the Internet is not working, we cannot watch the LIVE programme. I see this as a big issue,” said Omtong, a taxi driver.
“These days, the Internet is slow and it causes problems even when we are trying to connect with our friends and family. When we try to watch or read the news, the Internet is slow and we lose interest,” said Lhakpa Delma, a shopkeeper.
“The Internet has been slow for almost two weeks. I cannot even call my friends or even my family. The Internet is definitely an issue these days,” said Santi Ram Darjee, a resident.
In response to the public outcry, BBS reached out to the two telecom companies.
Officials from Bhutan Telecom said that they had received complaints concerning the slow Internet speed recently.
According to a notification by Bhutan Telecom, due to international link congestion, there is a slower Internet speed when accessing websites and online services hosted internationally.
The notification further stated that they are working actively to address the issue.
On the other hand, Tashi InfoComm said that they did not receive any formal complaints from their subscribers in the recent days.
The company added that they constantly monitor their network connectivity.
According to the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority’s annual report for 2022-2023, Bhutan Telecom has approximately 490,000 subscribers and Tashi InfoComm Limited has around 300,000 subscribers.
As the complaints and frustrations continue to mount, subscribers are awaiting improvements in their network connectivity.
Karma Samten Wangda
