The Bantwal Town Council, led by president B Vasu Poojary, has decided to take firm action against the unauthorized flex banner menace and commercial encroachments along the national highway.

During a general meeting, council member Hariprasad raised concerns about the lack of clarity in regulating flex banners, with senior member A Govinda Prabhu backing the need for clear guidelines.

Chief officer Rekha J Shetty clarified that only cloth banners would be allowed, and flex banners would be strictly regulated. She announced an awareness campaign for manufacturers and declared that all illegal banners and encroachments obstructing roads and footpaths would be removed. The ‘Garuda Operation’, starting February 1, will enforce these measures with public cooperation.

Council members also voiced frustration over the unresolved drinking water pipeline issue despite multiple discussions in past meetings. Additionally, member Devadas Shetty raised concerns about the non-functional bus stand at Kotramanagundi, prompting Poojary to promise police intervention for proper bus stoppages.

The meeting saw active participation from council members across parties, including P Ramakrishna Alva, Mohammad Sharif, Janardhan Chandtimar, Zeenath Firoz, and others. Vice president Moneesh Ali was also present.