Prague (dpa) - Radio reception on medium wave (MW) and long wave (LW) has been history in many parts of Europe for years.
Now, in the Czech Republic, at least the public broadcaster will stop transmitting on MW and LW as the new year starts on Saturday.
The powerful transmitters on the frequencies 270, 639 and 954 kilohertz could also be received in large parts of Germany.
The reason given for the move was the widespread availability of terrestrial digital radio DAB+ and the high costs of broadcasting.
Those still listening using medium waves were to be persuaded to switch with a campaign. The radio station Cesky Rozhlas set up a telephone hotline to answer questions.
It was not known at first whether the transmitters would be retained or used for other purposes.
The antenna of the medium-wave transmitter Liblice B east of Prague is considered the highest structure in the Czech Republic, with a height of 355 metres.
Impuls, the most-listened to private radio station, wants to remain faithful to medium wave for the time being. It broadcasts its second programme, with pop and country music, on analogue transmission. (dpa-international.com/)
