Mumbai: 1,963 Illegal Political Hoardings Removed From 24 Administrative Wards After Bombay HC Reprimands BMC

Mumbai: Following the state assembly elections, the city has witnessed a sudden surge in political hoardings. On Saturday, the BMC team removed 1,963 banners and posters across the 24 administrative wards.

The Bombay High Court recently reprimanded the Maharashtra government and civic bodies across the state for not adhering to its directives on curbing illegal hoardings and banners.

During the state assembly elections, the city was inundated with hoardings from political parties and candidates. Even after the elections, these hoardings continue to clutter the city's landscape.

In response to criticism for inaction, the civic body launched a drive on Saturday, removing 204 boards, 367 banners, 12 posters, and 912 flags. The highest number of banners and posters were removed from 'A' ward, which includes areas such as Fort, Churchgate, and Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.

Annually, the civic body removes approximately 15,000 to 20,000 illegal hoardings, 45% of which are related to birthday wishes for political leaders or festive celebrations. However, the BMC has yet to finalise and enforce a comprehensive 'Outdoor Advertisement Display' policy to regulate the growing proliferation of these hoardings.