Islamabad, Zubair kasuri: Pakistan – The much-anticipated Digital Terrestrial Transmission (DTH) project, expected to transform Pakistan’s media landscape, has been delayed once again. The project, which promises to bring high-quality digital TV services to the country, has been stalled due to licensing issues and delays by service providers.
According to sources, PEMRA awarded three licenses for DTH technology five years ago, but only one company, Shahzad Sky, has received the license. However, Shahzad Sky’s service has yet to commence, citing ongoing negotiations with Sparco Pakistan as the reason for the delay.
In a surprise move, PEMRA has offered licenses to two new companies, PTCL and Sardar Group of Companies, which were previously in fourth and fifth place. Both companies have requested a one-month extension to consider the offer, leaving the project’s fate uncertain.
The delay has raised concerns among media enthusiasts and stakeholders, who have been waiting for the project’s launch. The DTH project is expected to bring significant improvements to Pakistan’s media industry, including better picture quality, increased channel options, and reduced reliance on analog transmission.
PEMRA’s authority to issue new licenses is incomplete, further complicating the matter. The regulatory body is working to resolve the issue, but the delay has put the project’s timeline in jeopardy.
