Protesting cable operators suspend service in different areas

LAHORE: Cable operators have suspended their service in different areas of the country after unsuccessful dialogue with the government on the issue of Direct To Home (DTH) service.

They had decided to go on strike if the Pemra did not accept their demand of postponing the process of introducing the DTH service. Earlier, a meeting presided over by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in Lahore decided that auction of DTH licences will be held as per schedule on Wednesday.

The meeting was also attended by Chairman Pakistan Broadcasters Association, Chairman Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and representatives of cable operators. Successful bidder would start its operation from November next year. It was decided that recommendation would be made to the prime minister that a high-level committee be formed to review the   matters of PBA and cable operators. This committee would present its recommendations to the PM.

On November 15 Cable Operators Association chairman Khalid Arain had said that the launch of DTH was not justified since the cable operators have invested billions of rupees in converting the analogue cable system into the digital one. It will also ruin their business and cause a huge economic loss.