Frequency mismatch: Radio firms eye govt help to stay tuned

With advertising revenues under pressure, radio companies may be forced to shut down stations unless they get some relief in the form of a waiver on licence fees, Prasar Bharati’s tower rentals and charges on WPC (wireless planning and coordination).

In the April-June quarter, advertisement revenues most of which come from the metros and big cities stood at a meagre 10-12% of last year’s levels. Inventories have not been utilised to the extent of even 10%, according to Nisha Narayanan, COO at Red FM and Magic FM.

Prashant Panday, MD & CEO at ENIL (Entertainment Network India), told FE that the firm is “definitely evaluating several cities that appear to be unviable but a lot will depend on what relief authorities provide to broadcasters”.