From The Hindu · Gowri Lakshmi · · 1m 30s
Mumbai removes 52,000 unauthorised ads in crackdown
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation seized over 52,000 banners and posters since January as part of a campaign against unauthorised advertisements defacing public spaces.
In brief
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation seized over 52,000 banners and posters since January as part of a campaign against unauthorised advertisements defacing public spaces. Mumbai's municipal corporation removed 52,448 unauthorised banners and posters between January and October to prevent defacement of public…
BMC's year-long removal campaign
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation removed fifty two thousand four hundred forty eight banners, flex boards and posters across Mumbai between January one and October sixteen this year.
Special drive yields 3,537 seizures
During a special drive between October eight and sixteen, the BMC seized around three thousand five hundred thirty seven unauthorised advertisements including banners, boards, posters and flags in Mumbai.
Legal action and police complaints
The BMC registered four FIRs at police stations following complaints from its Licensing Department. Three hundred thirty three additional complaints have been submitted to police for further legal action.
Campaign to continue through year
Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide said the drive against unauthorised advertising displays would continue for the rest of the year, aimed at preventing defacement of Mumbai's public spaces.
QR codes and printing press action
The civic body is considering making QR codes mandatory on authorised advertising displays to verify validity and distinguish legal from illegal advertisements. Officials will also target printing presses producing materials without permissions.
Penalties under state law
Under the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, nineteen ninety five, those putting up unauthorised banners and posters may face imprisonment of up to three months or a fine.
The headline
Mumbai's municipal corporation removed 52,448 unauthorised banners and posters between January and October to prevent defacement of public spaces.
