A residents in Kandal province have asked local authorities to block opposition plans to build a television antenna near their village, fearing the equipment will make them sterile.

Heng Theam, Takhmao town’s governor, said 21 people from Stung Chrey village in Deum Mean commune had complained after the Cambodia National Rescue Party applied for permission to build the antenna earlier this month.

“In their request, they mention that if the antenna is built, it will affect their health such as having a lack of sperm to produce a baby,” he said, adding that the complaint was made “without intimidation”.

Theam said he had requested advice from the provincial authorities yesterday morning about how to proceed.

CNRP spokesman Yim Sovann said yesterday that the party would wait for a decision on its application before commenting.

A company linked to the opposition party was awarded a broadcasting licence in 2014.

They planned to begin operating Sun TV early this year, however, a fundraising campaign last year raised about $700,000, well short of the desired $3 million.