Pune: PMC Removes 740 Illegal Billboards, Files Police Complaints Against 95 People

Pune, 13th December 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated an intensive campaign to remove unauthorized billboards and banners that have been put up in various squares along the city’s main roads. In an eight-day operation, the PMC’s Sky Signs Department removed 740 illegal billboards and banners, and a police complaint has been filed against 95 individuals responsible for these unauthorized postings.

The drive comes in response to growing complaints from citizens regarding the increasing number of illegal billboards cluttering the city’s streets. Many of these billboards were oversized and placed in prominent squares, with some even obstructing traffic control signals. In addition, several billboards had been erected to congratulate the newly elected MLAs following the recent assembly elections.

For some time, concerns had been raised about the lack of action being taken against these illegal billboards. The Sky Signs Department had come under scrutiny for not addressing the issue in a timely manner.

Taking note of these concerns, Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale ordered a crackdown on the unauthorized signage. The Sky Signs Department then launched a special campaign to remove these billboards and banners.

“We have removed a total of 740 unauthorized billboards and banners during the campaign, and fines amounting to Rs 6.67 lakh have been imposed on the responsible parties,” said officials from the Sky Signs Department.

The PMC had previously issued a public appeal asking citizens not to put up illegal billboards, banners, and posters following the announcement of the assembly election results. They had also warned that action would be taken under Sections 244 and 245 of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act against anyone who erected billboards without the necessary permissions. However, despite these warnings, many illegal billboards continued to appear.

With the number of unauthorized billboards continuing to rise, the PMC took decisive action to clear the streets. Prashant Thombre, Deputy Commissioner of the Sky Signs Department, assured the public that the removal campaign would continue.

“We have received numerous complaints from citizens regarding illegal hoardings in the city,” said Thombre. “The Municipal Commissioner has ordered that strict action be taken against all unauthorized hoardings and banners. This is an ongoing effort, and we will continue to take action to keep our roads clear of illegal signage.”

As part of the ongoing campaign, a police complaint has been filed against 95 individuals who are believed to be responsible for the illegal billboards.