Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its crackdown on unauthorized advertisements, filing police complaints against 110 individuals in the last three months.
The action comes after a court directive, instructing municipal authorities to take strict measures against those installing unauthorized flex boards, hoardings, and banners across the city without prior approval.
PMC has invoked the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995, which allows for criminal proceedings against individuals responsible for illegal outdoor advertisements. Complaints have been filed at various police stations across Pune, and police have begun registering cases against violators.
Municipal Officers Designated for Enforcement
According to the Sky Sign and License Department of PMC, the municipal administration has strengthened its enforcement process by appointing:
Assistant municipal commissioners as implementation and enforcement officers.
Zonal deputy commissioners as supervisory officers.
This structure ensures strict monitoring and immediate action against illegal advertisements.
₹5.23 Lakh in Fines Collected, but Violations Persist
Despite repeated crackdowns, unauthorized hoardings continue to appear. Over the last three months, PMC has:
Collected a total fine of ₹5.23 lakh from violators.
Charged ₹1,000 per illegal flex board.
Filed 110 complaints due to repeated violations.
Stricter Action to Follow
PMC has warned that enforcement will be intensified if violations persist. The administration has urged:
Citizens, businesses, advertisers, and organizations to avoid installing unauthorized banners, hoardings, and flex boards.
Strict legal action against those violating advertising regulations.