Mumbai, Maharashtra: As the state gears up for its assembly elections, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched an extensive drive to remove unauthorised banners and posters across Mumbai. Since the implementation of the model code of conduct on October 15, the civic body has successfully removed 11,757 illegal displays, marking a significant clean-up effort.
However, despite the large-scale removal, no legal actions or cases have been filed against those responsible for putting up these illegal displays. The BMC’s operation covered various areas of the city, including government properties, public places, and private premises. A total of 1,268 illegal banners were removed from government-owned spaces, 7,824 from public places, and 2,665 from private properties. This coordinated effort is seen as crucial in maintaining a clutter-free cityscape as Mumbai prepares for the assembly polls.
The problem of illegal hoardings and banners is not new to Mumbai, often peaking during festive seasons such as Ganeshotsav and Navratri. With numerous political and celebratory posters dotting the city, the BMC had instructed its licence department to conduct night inspections and take action to curb this growing menace. This led to the formation of a special team that began operations on October 15, just as the election code came into effect. Despite the civic body’s active removal of these illegal advertisements, the absence of legal repercussions for violators has raised eyebrows. Over the years, the Bombay High Court has repeatedly criticised the BMC for its leniency on illegal displays and slow action in enforcing stricter regulations.
While the BMC had drafted a comprehensive policy on outdoor advertising in August—following a tragic billboard collapse in Ghatkopar in May that claimed 17 lives—its implementation has been delayed due to the ongoing election process. This policy, once finalised, will introduce stringent regulations, making it mandatory for any agency to obtain written permission before putting up banners, boards, or flags. Violations of the policy will be subject to punishment under Section 471 of the BMC Act, 1888, and the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995. Offenders could face up to three months imprisonment, a fine of ₹2,000, or both.
Mumbai’s efforts to clear illegal banners before the elections highlight the challenges the city faces in regulating public spaces. While the clean-up drive is commendable, the lack of enforcement and legal action may embolden future offenders. As the assembly elections approach, residents and civic bodies alike will watch closely to see if the proposed policy will finally be implemented and bring much-needed reform to the city’s advertising regulations.
