Kalyani Nagar, a picturesque suburb in Pune, finds itself embroiled in controversy as residents express growing dissatisfaction with the visual pollution caused by an influx of flex banners and advertisements. The towering banners, strategically placed on Central Avenue and South Avenue, have transformed the landscape into an eyesore, prompting calls for stringent measures to curb this environmental and aesthetic degradation.
Jaffer Iqbal, a concerned resident, highlighted the pervasive issue, stating, “All these flex banners put up on poles etc. pollute the entire area. The cheapest form of advertisement is these banners. Hundreds of banners are put up in Kalyani Nagar, which is not at all good. PMC must fine such people heavily. Every time, we can’t complain to the PMC. They must take action on their own.”
Rachna Agarwal echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for holding responsible parties accountable. “Especially educational institutions that put up such flexes. This is wrong. The flex must be put up only at licensed places and not at every nook and corner in Kalyani Nagar,” she urged.
A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, commended the swift response from the traffic in-charge, Shailesh Sankhe, in removing a banner defying traffic norms within just 10 minutes. The resident expressed concern about the influence such actions by educational institutions could have on students and urged for corrective measures to preserve the charm of Kalyani Nagar.
Problems Arising Due to Flex Banners:
- Eyesore on Kalyani Nagar Streets: The towering and intrusive flex banners have transformed the landscape into an eyesore, catching the ire of residents who value the visual appeal of their surroundings.
- The Predicament of Plastic Pollution: The use of flex banners exacerbates the issue of plastic pollution, contradicting the environmentally conscious values of Kalyani Nagar’s residents.
- Disappointment Among Educated Residents: The well-educated and discerning population expresses disappointment in opting for an advertising method that contradicts the community’s values.
- Legal Implications and Responsible Advertising: Flex banners in unauthorized areas raise legal concerns, prompting residents to call for established brands to invest in legal and environmentally friendly advertising channels.
Hasham Patel from the PMC Sky Signs Department in Vadgaon Sheri assured, “We will inspect the issue and resolve it.”
