RASC News Agency: Sources from Balkh province have confirmed that Nehad Radio, which had ceased its broadcasts approximately three months ago due to financial difficulties, has now resumed operations.
Sayeed Mohammad Yazdanparast, the director of Nehad Radio, announced to the media on Sunday, October 15, that the radio station has recommenced its broadcasts today. Yazdanparast stated that Nehad Radio will broadcast for several hours each day with a lean team of only 10 employees, including female staff members.
The official of Nehad Radio expressed concerns regarding the uncertain future of the station’s broadcasts, citing economic challenges, high electricity costs, and the absence of a consistent national broadcasting plan.
In the northern region of Afghanistan, the representative of the Committee for the Protection of Afghanistani Journalists expressed satisfaction with the recent resumption of Radio Nehad’s broadcasts. He underscored our dedication to continue supporting the media in Afghanistan.
It is crucial to highlight that Nehad Local Radio commenced its operations in Balkh province approximately 16 years ago. However, due to economic difficulties and a lack of support programs, it ceased broadcasting three months ago. This interruption occurred despite the Taliban’s strict restrictions on media programs in various provinces of the country since their takeover.
Reports from women and girls indicate that the military of the previous government and the media have been among the entities most severely affected by the Taliban’s rule in Afghanistan.
The available information suggests that freedom of expression and media activities have faced significant challenges since the group’s incursion into Afghanistan, resulting in the cessation of broadcasting in many instances.
