SIFC Takes Notice of Delay in Launch of DTH Services in Pakistan

Pakistan’s dream of offering Direct-to-Home (DTH) television services has hit a snag. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), a government body established by the Prime Minister, has expressed serious concerns about the delay in launching DTH services in Pakistan.

The story of DTH services in Pakistan goes back a long way. The DTH license bidding process first began in 2004. In 2016, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), the country’s media regulator, restarted the bidding process. After evaluating applications from three companies, Pemra was awarded a single DTH service license.

The terms of the license stipulated that the winning company had to launch DTH services within a year of receiving the license. Unfortunately, despite receiving the license, the company (identified in reports as Shehbaz International) has yet to commercially launch any national DTH service in Pakistan.

SIFC Takes Notice of Delay in Launch of DTH Services in Pakistan

The SIFC, frustrated by the lack of progress, has taken a strong stance. In a letter addressed to the Pemra chairman, the SIFC has demanded a meeting with all stakeholders involved in the DTH project. This meeting, scheduled for next week, aims to discuss the reasons behind the delay and find a path forward.

Sources within Pemra reveal that Shehbaz International hasn’t taken any concrete steps towards launching the service. Additionally, the company has submitted an application to Pemra requesting a waiver of over Rs. 900 million in fines and seeking permission to import equipment free of tax.

Furthermore, reports suggest that Shehbaz International hasn’t paid Pemra the full amount for the license and has missed the stipulated launch date. Pemra has also reportedly issued a final notice to the company in light of these issues.

Efforts to reach Shehbaz Sky International’s CEO for comment regarding the delays and outstanding dues were unsuccessful. The CEO reportedly declined to answer any questions related to the matter.

The lack of communication from Shehbaz International and the ongoing issues with Pemra leave the future of DTH services in Pakistan uncertain. The upcoming meeting between the SIFC and stakeholders will hopefully shed light on the reasons behind the delays. It will also provide a roadmap for finally launching DTH services in the country. This development comes as a disappointment for Pakistani citizens who have been waiting for the convenience and potentially wider channel selection that DTH services can offer.

See Also: PEMRA Directs Electronic Media to Follow ECP’s Code of Conduct