VEHARI, March 15: The ministry of information and Pakistan television authorities could not install a new powerful booster during the last four years in the district and adjoining areas, despite repeated complaints.

According to information collected by this correspondent, a powerful Ptv booster had been installed at Mauza Meranpur on Mailsi-Kehrorpaka Road in 1999 at a cost of Rs30 million. After the installation, coverage expanded to 50 to 60km area of this part of south Punjab. The booster remained functional for three years. In 2003, the 500-foot high booster was hit by a strong windstorm on which viewers and the staff deputed at the booster repeatedly informed the authorities, but to no avail.

When contacted duty staff Associate Engineer (AE) Saifuddin, he said a 60-foot high booster had temporarily been installed with 5km coverage range in Mailsi only. He said Rs30 to 35 million would be required for installation of a new powerful booster.

The people of three tehsils of the district have appealed to the authorities concerned to do the needful.