In a determined effort to maintain environmental equilibrium and protect tree plantation initiatives, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has canceled the licenses of seven hoarding agencies. This decisive move comes in response to the obstruction caused to tree growth by hoardings, impeding the city’s commitment to cleanliness, greenery, and aesthetic appeal.
Under the leadership of PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, the municipal administration aims to curb activities that hinder the city’s environmental initiatives. The measure underscores the municipality’s dedication to fostering a green and sustainable urban environment by taking strict action against those who vandalize trees planted for the city’s benefit.
Pradeep Jambhale Patil, Additional Commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, expressed concern over the rising incidents of illegally cutting trees, especially to make way for hoardings. “Despite strict measures and fines imposed on violators, instances of hoarding agencies cutting trees to enhance visibility have become rampant,” he stated.
Ravikiran Ghodke, Deputy Commissioner, PCMC Garden Department, highlighted the legal actions taken against violators. “PCMC issues notices to those who carry out illegal cutting of trees at hoarding spots. Both advertising agencies and hoarding spot owners face action under the Maharashtra State Tree Protection and Conservation Act 1975. In several cases, police complaints have been filed against violators,” he added.
Commissioner Shekhar Singh emphasized the need for hoarding holders to refrain from unauthorized tree cutting. He stated that if trees are felled without municipal permission, as per the Maharashtra Government’s Advertising Regulation and Control Rules, the license of the hoarding site owner will be canceled, and legal action will be initiated against the advertiser.
Additionally, eight hoarding holders have faced police cases for unauthorized tree cutting, and correspondence with police stations in nine jurisdictions has been initiated for more cases. Investigations are underway, and fines totaling Rs 10,000 have already been recovered.
