Pune, Maharashtra – The Sky Signs and License Department of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has recently taken proactive measures to enhance public safety by removing 174 unauthorized advertisement boards across the city. This move underlines PCMC’s commitment to stringent policies, ensuring that only authorized and secure billboards remain in place. With just 1,136 official advertisement boards sanctioned, PCMC issues a stern warning that any unauthorized boards will face immediate demolition.
Revised Policies Prompted by Safety Concerns:
The removal of unauthorized billboards comes in the wake of a tragic incident in Kiwale, where an unauthorized billboard collapsed during the rainy season. This unfortunate incident prompted a reevaluation of the existing outdoor advertising policy. In 2022, a new state government notification led to the adoption of a revised policy, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to prevent potential hazards.
Commitment to Public Safety:
PCMC’s Skysign and License Department has been diligently working on implementing outdoor advertising policies, with a focus on ensuring structural stability and compliance. The recent removal of 174 unauthorized boards reflects PCMC’s unwavering commitment to public safety and a proactive approach to address potential risks associated with unauthorized structures.
Legal Compliance and Renewal Process:
In compliance with court orders, billboard traders are now paying license fees and submitting necessary documents, contributing to a safer and regulated advertising landscape. A total of 281 plaque holders, who sought legal recourse, have obtained architectural stability certificates and collectively deposited ₹4.61 crore in the municipal treasury.
Of the 1,366 authorized billboard holders in the city, 861 have applied for renewal. PCMC is set to meticulously scrutinize each renewal application, ensuring adherence to specifications that include a size of 40 feet by 20 feet. Deputy Commissioner Subhash Ingle has emphasized that boards lacking proper identification, such as number plates and QR codes, or those with rusty or rotten skeletons, will not be permitted. Strict action will be taken against any violations, reinforcing PCMC’s commitment to safety.
