Heavy rainfall in Pune led to the collapse of several hoardings at Dattawadi Phatak, fortunately causing no injuries. This incident prompted public outcry and subsequent action by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
In a significant move, PMC's Sky Sign Department removed 101 illegal hoardings and signage along Nagar Road by May 23, 2025. The demolition included 2 hoardings, 60 flex banners, 4 flags, 26 posters, and 9 kiosks. According to PMC officials, most of these structures were erected without proper authorization or violated civic norms. Deputy Commissioner of Sky Sign, Shital Kharat, emphasized the focus on areas with high pedestrian and vehicular traffic to mitigate risks to life and property.
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) also reported the removal of over 55 unauthorized hoardings over the past five months. The civic authorities have assured citizens of continued vigilance and collaboration with police and planning departments to extend the campaign to other parts of the city.
Under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations (Regulation and Control of the Display of Sky-signs and Advertisement) Rules, 2022, hoardings are permitted only if they undergo structural stability assessments and are certified by a government or corporation-licensed structural engineer. In response, the administration recently convened a meeting with advertising agencies and ward office officials to survey hoardings across the city.
Prashant Thombare, head of PMC's Sky Sign Department, stated, "The illegal structure will be razed down; hoardings are illegal if set up without permissions. Even if the hoardings have permissions, but the structural audit was not carried out, it is considered illegal."
