Netxpress Online

by Umair Naeem

It’s been a bit now since 2008 started, and thankfully it has been on the quiet side following the very unfortunate end to 2007. Much has been said and talked about the events that took place, and the fallout continues to dominate news.

It would be appropriate here to talk about two vital mediums of communication that helped people get through the tragic events: Television and Telecom.

The news channels remained forever present and vigilant, and have to be lauded at continuously trying to bring up-to-date news to their viewers. Within Pakistan, many felt the loss of Geo News, and in its absence Aaj and ARY News became to channels of choice. While the actual honor of breaking the news of the bomb blast in Liaqat Bagh absolutely live be unofficially given to the newly launched Samaa News, unfortunately it was only the channel’s second day on satellite and it wasn’t available on cable at the time.

DAWN News, catering to a select niche of the population, won over quite a few fans, if only because of their ability to be sure of the news that they were giving out. The flip side, of course, is the fact that an impression continues to persist that DAWN News can not be relied on breaking news, but rather remains stronger on analysis and presenting varying view points.

The Television media also should be lauded on two other vital fronts: firstly, largely the channels acted responsibly and tried to shy away from sensationalism, something that I would not have said a few months ago; and secondly, they tried to refute the rumors that kept gripping the country wherever possible. On the 28^th of December, when many a mosque in Karachi advised people that the water coming to the city had been poisoned, Aaj spoke to the MD of the Water Board and managed to quell the fears of the people to a large extent.

But what about the telecom? Sadly, the cellular companies once again proved that they can not be relied on during a time of emergency. This remains a huge concern for us, because unfortunately Pakistan continues to have its fair share of crisis. All four of the big Telecom companies were affected, and whereas I did manage to reach everyone I wanted to eventually, it would take me many an attempted call before actually getting a positive tone. Unfortunately, other subscribers weren’t as lucky as I was, and many couldn’t get signals or receive calls. Texting was another thing that suddenly became impossible following 6.30 pm on 27^th December.

Here’s another scathing reminder for the Telecom companies who remain so adamant on advertising low rates and high connectivity. Getting stars to dance on jingles for an ad or getting them to walk over water (or run in this case) becomes a farce when a post paid customer can’t get a call through. Mobilink, Telenor, Warid and Ufone all need to get their acts in order if they are to come through on the promise of reliable connectivity.

I think the tragic few days showcased clearly that it is very important to have independent but responsible forms of media and communication working for the people. It will only be through the natural evolution of the said media that Pakistan can claim a substantial share of voice in the media clutter that exists in the world.

Here’s to the New Year!

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