The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has announced a stringent campaign to tackle unauthorised advertisements, hoardings, flex banners, kiosks, gantries and posters across the city. Acting on directives issued by the Bombay High Court, PCMC has established a robust standard operating procedure (SOP) for strict enforcement of the laws.
PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh issued a stern warning, stating, “Unauthorised 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. Unauthorised 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.”
Responsibility and Oversight:
Regional officers will be held accountable for identifying and removing unauthorised advertisements in their jurisdictions. Dr. Pradeep Thengal, Deputy Commissioner of the Sky Signs and Licensing Department, has been appointed as the nodal officer to ensure citywide compliance.
Citizen Participation:
Zone-level committees will be formed to raise awareness and involve citizens in reporting illegal advertisements. Existing committees will be restructured as needed. Citizens can report violations through a dedicated toll-free number, WhatsApp, SMS, or by uploading photographic evidence on the PCMC website.
Stringent Penalties:
Unauthorised 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.
Regulation of Licenced Hoardings:
Advertisers must prominently display licence numbers, validity, and QR codes on all hoardings. Violations will result in penalties.
No Tolerance Policy for Temporary Structures:
Temporary structures like booths and arches displaying unauthorised advertisements will be dismantled immediately, and violators will be fined heavily.
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.
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.
PCMC urges citizens and businesses to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a cleaner, safer urban environment.
