On the evening of 3 October 2025, radio listeners across Tamil Nadu were pleasantly surprised: broadcasts soon resumed on the Medium Wave frequency 1548 kHz using the high-power transmitter in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka — the same facility that formerly belonged to Deutsche Welle (DW).
What We Know
- The test broadcast started at 8:00 PM IST and ran until 9:00 PM, relayed via the former Deutsche Welle MW transmitter at Trincomalee.
- The transmitter in question has a history: DW operated a relay station at Trincomalee (also known as Perkara-Trincomalee) starting in the 1980s, using 1548 kHz MW among other frequencies. British DX Club+4Cape Dx+4Scribd+4
- Deutsche Welle officially ceased its use of the Trincomalee relay station on 1 November 2011, transferring control to the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC).
Broadcast Details
- Frequency: MW 1548 kHz
- Power: 200 kW transmitter
- Time: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (IST)
- Coverage: Many parts of Tamil Nadu
During the test broadcast held yesterday evening, listeners in several parts of Tamil Nadu were able to tune in and enjoy the programs.
The same test broadcast is scheduled to continue today at the same time slot (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM). Listeners are encouraged to tune in and share their feedback on reception quality and listening experience.
This revival of MW transmission has excited many radio enthusiasts and nostalgic listeners who fondly remember the golden era of medium wave broadcasting.
What This Means
If confirmed, the 3 October event marks a re-activation of MW broadcasts on 1548 kHz using the old DW transmitter — likely under SLBC management. For listeners, it means:Potential improvement in medium-wave radio service in Tamil Nadu and nearby regions, especially in times or places where FM/shortwave reception is poor.The nostalgia factor: many older listeners will remember DW’s quality relay service from this same frequency and equipment.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in during 8-9 PM IST in coming days to test reception, note the content, and share reports of clarity and signal strength.