Pune: PCMC cracks down on illegal advertisements; strict action to be taken against violators

Pimpri, 8th January 2025: Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has announced a stringent campaign to tackle unauthorized advertisements, hoardings, flex banners, kiosks, gantries, and posters across the city. Acting on directives issued by the Honorable High Court, PCMC has laid down a robust Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for strict enforcement of laws.

PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh has issued a stern warning, stating, “Unauthorized advertisements not only deface the city but also pose safety and environmental hazards. We are committed to restoring the aesthetic integrity of Pimpri Chinchwad. Any violation will be met with swift and decisive action. There will be no leniency for violators. Unauthorized hoardings, posters, and banners will be removed without notice, and fines will be imposed. Repeat offenders will face legal action, including criminal proceedings.”

Assistant commissioner, Dr Pradeep Thengal added, “This campaign is not just about enforcement; it’s about ensuring that Pimpri Chinchwad remains a clean and beautiful city. We urge citizens to support us in this mission by reporting violations and refraining from illegal advertising practices.”

Key Measures Announced

1. Responsibility and Oversight:

Regional officers will be held accountable for identifying and removing unauthorized advertisements in their jurisdictions.

Deputy Commissioner of the Sky Signs and Licensing Department, Dr. Pradeep Thengal, has been appointed as the nodal officer to ensure citywide compliance.

2. Citizen Participation:

Zone-level committees will be formed to raise awareness and involve citizens in reporting illegal advertisements. Existing committees will be restructured as necessary.

Citizens can report violations through a dedicated toll-free number, WhatsApp, SMS, or by uploading photographic evidence on PCMC’s website.

3. Stringent Penalties:

Unauthorized advertisements using plastic or non-biodegradable materials will face action under the Maharashtra Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 2006, and the Maharashtra Property Defacement Act, 1995.

4. Regulation of Licensed Hoardings:

Advertisers must prominently display license numbers, validity, and QR codes on all hoardings. Violations will result in penalties.

5. No Tolerance Policy for Temporary Structures:

Temporary structures like booths and arches found displaying unauthorized advertisements will be dismantled immediately, and violators fined heavily.

6. Special Monitoring During Festivities:

Strict surveillance will be conducted during festivals, public events, and celebrations to remove illegal banners and posters before the events begin.

Implementation Timeline

The SOP, effective immediately, mandates:

Regular review meetings with police officials during key events and festivals.

Documentation of all enforcement actions through photographs and videos to ensure transparency and accountability.

Future Licensing and Renewals

New proposals for advertising hoardings will undergo strict scrutiny, with mandatory site inspections by licensing inspectors. Renewal fees and penalties for delays will be enforced rigorously.

The PCMC urges citizens and businesses to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a cleaner, safer urban environment.

For more information or to report violations, contact the PCMC Sky Signs and Licensing Department through the toll-free helpline or the PCMC website.