EXCLUSIVE: Channel Punjab’s future in doubt

The future of the flanking service Channel Punjab looks very much in doubt, BizAsia.co.uk can exclusively reveal.

The channel, which went off the air last month, had initially planned to return within a couple of weeks after a programming revamp, this however was shelved due to rumoured “financial issues”.

Jasbir Singh Derewal, CEO, Derewals Group, who run Channel Punjab exclusively spoke to BizAsia.co.uk about the difficult decision.

“My Dad and I started this project with great hopes and determination, without any real media experience or any financial help from anyone.

During the last 3/4 years we have spent money creating Channel Punjab.
Since Channel Punjab went on air in September 2006, we have proven without doubt that our programming is on par with any other ethnic channel and even main stream channels, and that there is more than just music in Punjabi culture.

We managed to recruit a successful programming team but unfortunately we did not manage to build a successful sales team, and again unfortunately when we went as a paid Channel in July 2007 we did not get the support of the Punjab community.

Due to these facts and even after putting more funds into the business we as of today are afraid that we must put our hands up and say “we tried our best” even to point where you can say we put our money where our heart is.”

There are also unconfirmed reports suggesting the channel could go into liquidation if it fails to find itself a buyer (for its EPG slot/programming/licence) by mid-August. Sources close to BizAsia.co.uk have indicated that a creditors meeting being held on the 15th August will take place to decide the channel’s fate.

Wayne Taylor, acting director of communications at Channel Punjab said, “Naturally the management of the channel is extremely upset to have taken this course, which was only taken after professional advice. In the interim however, the channel will continue to seek a rescue package with a number of interested parties with a view to returning the channel to the TV screen and ensure that the loyalty of their thousands of viewers continues. The management want to place on record their thanks for the countless messages of support and good luck they have received during this trying time.”