QR Code Rule for Hoardings: PMRDA Moves to Regulate Outdoor Advertisements in Pune Region
Pune, 7th April 2026: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has announced a strict crackdown on illegal and hazardous hoardings across its jurisdiction. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Abhijit Chaudhari has directed the encroachment removal department to take stringent action against violators, warning that non-compliant hoarding owners will face direct enforcement measures.
At the same time, authorities have offered a final opportunity to hoarding operators to complete the necessary permission process in accordance with regulations.
A large number of unauthorised hoardings have been reported in talukas including Mulshi, Maval, Haveli, Khed and Shirur. Taking note of rising public complaints, a review meeting was held on Monday at the PMRDA headquarters in Akurdi under the chairmanship of the commissioner. Senior officials, including Development Permission Director Avinash Patil and Deputy Commissioner Asha Holkar, were present.
To curb urban clutter and prevent potential accidents, PMRDA will introduce an online permission system for hoardings. Going forward, all authorised hoardings will be required to carry a QR code and be integrated with geo-fencing technology for monitoring and verification.
Officials said applicants whose proposals are pending due to errors or unpaid fees will be given a final opportunity to submit complete applications. However, those who have failed to remove illegal hoardings despite receiving notices will face a demolition drive starting this week.
To clarify the administration’s position and hear concerns from stakeholders, a special meeting with agencies has been scheduled on Thursday at 1.30 pm at the commissioner’s office. Following this meeting, strict enforcement action will begin.
PMRDA has also issued key directives, including mandatory adoption of the online permission system, immediate removal of illegal hoardings within the specified deadline, strict action against repeat offenders, and prompt completion of pending proposals as per the prescribed norms.
