In anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a rigorous campaign to remove unauthorized hoardings, banners, and advertisements across the city. Since March 16, over 3,000 such displays, associated with various political parties and politicians, have been taken down by the PMC.
Under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Madhav Jagtap, the PMC’s Licensing and Sky Sign Department has been actively enforcing the Model Code of Conduct for the upcoming elections. This includes the removal of wall writings, posters, cutouts, hoarding banners, ads, and other forms of advertisements within the PMC limits.
Here is a breakdown of the number of hoardings and flexes removed by the PMC in the past 24 and 48 hours, categorized by constituency:
| Name of Constituency | No of removed flexes in 24 hours | No of removed flexes in 48 hours |
| 208 – Vadgaon Sheri | 112 | 208 |
| 209 – Shivajinagar | 179 | 144 |
| 210 – Kothrud | 120 | 355 |
| 212 – Parvati | 135 | 243 |
| 214 – Pune Camp | 125 | 394 |
| 215 – Kasba Peth | 114 | 87 |
| 211 – Khadakwasla | 572 | 314 |
| 213 – Hadapsar | 202 | 129 |
| Total | 1559 | 1874 |
The active engagement of netizens on social media platforms reflects their keen interest in the enforcement of election regulations. Concerns and observations about the removal process have been voiced, indicating a high level of public scrutiny.
One user from Wanowrie, Salunkhe Vihar area, noted, “Wall paintings are still intact in our area.”
Another user highlighted an issue regarding the defacement of government property, stating, “The PMC removed the wall painting of the Lotus (BJP symbol) on a government building wall. However, action against the defacement of government property remains pending.”
As the election season progresses, the PMC remains committed to ensuring fair practices and upholding the integrity of the electoral process in Pune.
