Mumbai residents are calling for stricter action against unauthorised banners, posters and flex displays that continue to clutter roads, footpaths and public landmarks despite the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) ongoing removal campaign.
Political rallies, festive gatherings and commercial promotions have contributed to the problem across areas including Dadar, Shivaji Park, Worli, Bandra, Mahim and Goregaon. Residents say the displays obstruct pedestrian movement, conceal landmarks and create potential traffic hazards.
The BMC has removed 52,448 banners and flex displays since January. During a special drive between October 8 and 16, the civic body removed 3,537 unauthorised advertisements, registered four FIRs and approached the police for further legal action in 333 cases. However, citizens argue that fresh banners appear soon after existing ones are taken down.
Political Hotspots Face Recurring Clutter
Vaibhav Rege, secretary of Dadar ALM, said political activity and public celebrations have made Dadar and Shivaji Park frequent locations for unauthorised displays.
“Dadar and Shivaji Park are known for their political history and prominent festivities, which is why the citizens never have respite from the billboards,” he said.
Rege added that banners frequently occupy junctions and pedestrian crossings, while displays have also obscured the Senapati Bapat memorial at Shivaji Park.
Safety and Accessibility Concerns
Residents say the issue extends beyond political publicity. Worli resident Karan Hingorani highlighted the presence of commercial banners across neighbourhoods and warned that some installations could obstruct drivers’ visibility and compromise road safety.
In Bandra East, residents have approached political leaders directly, urging them to prevent banners from blocking footpaths and residential entrances. Siddharth Pardhe, secretary of the Bandra East ALM, said displays often remain in place long after the associated events have ended.
Other residents have questioned the permissions and procedures required to install promotional boards, particularly in green neighbourhoods and near residential buildings.
BMC Plans Further Enforcement
The civic body has proposed making QR codes mandatory on banners and flex displays to help verify their authorisation. A BMC official said the removal drive would continue, with illegal installations reported to the police.
Residents maintain that sustained enforcement and greater accountability among political parties, event organisers and advertisers are essential to prevent the city’s streetscape from becoming cluttered again.
Source: Mid-day
