Mumbai: Following the recent conclusion of the state assembly elections, the city has witnessed a sudden surge in political hoardings, with numerous banners and posters congratulating the victorious candidates.
However, despite the growing number of such advertisements, the BMC has yet to finalise and enforce a comprehensive ‘Outdoor Advertisement Display’ policy to regulate the proliferation of these hoardings. This policy was initially framed in September, in the aftermath of the tragic billboard crash in Ghatkopar, which claimed the lives of 17 people.
Last week, the Bombay High Court strongly criticised the Maharashtra government and civic bodies across the state for not taking its directives on curbing illegal hoardings and banners “seriously.” During the state assembly election, the city was flooded with hoardings from political parties and candidates.
Even though the election has concluded, these hoardings continue to dominate the city’s landscape. Instead of election-related advertisements, hoardings now congratulating newly elected MLAs and thanking voters can be seen at numerous locations. Activists and citizens have raised concerns and blamed the civic authorities for their apathy in taking action against the illegal hoardings.
Annually, the civic body removes around 15,000 to 20,000 illegal hoardings, with 45% related to birthday wishes for political leaders or festive celebrations. These hoardings surge during elections or festivals.
The BMC’s new draft policy mandates written permission for all advertisements, and unauthorised displays will face penalties under Section 471 of the BMC Act, 1888, and The Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995, which could result in up to three months’ imprisonment or a Rs. 2,000 fine. However, the policy was delayed due to the model code of conduct for the state assembly election.
Bhushan Gagr., the municipal commissioner, said, “We have already started removing political banners and hoardings at many locations. However, in some areas, new banners appear even after our removal efforts. We will expedite the finalisation of the outdoor advertisement display policy to address this issue at the earliest.”
Meanwhile, the BMC is yet to review 381 suggestions and objections received from citizens, government agencies, social activists, and advertisers in September. After which, the draft policy will be finalised and approved by the BMC’s administrator.
