The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has announced a stringent prohibition on placing flex boards and banners during forthcoming religious and cultural celebrations, as part of its ongoing mission to keep the city “flex-free.” The initiative, promoted under the slogan “Flex-free festivals, clean environment—everyone’s duty,” comes ahead of Independence Day, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dasara, and various harvest festivals.
In earlier years, such occasions saw a flood of flex boards and hoardings across public spaces. Determined to avoid a repeat, the MCC is actively dismantling unauthorized displays including cut-outs, posters, and buntings, citing both environmental damage and harm to the city’s visual appeal. Organizers using public property for social, religious, or political promotion have been cautioned that violations will invite penalties and prosecution under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1981.
On August 11, enforcement teams removed illegal cloth banners in State Bank, Hampankatte, Pandeshwar, and Kankanady, imposing fines totaling ₹8,500. MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik emphasized that flex materials produce significant non-biodegradable waste, posing long-term ecological risks.
While the move has gained public support, some residents criticized the civic body for allegedly acting selectively—removing festival-related decorations but sparing political and government event banners. Citizens have demanded that the rules be applied uniformly to all offenders.
The MCC has reiterated its commitment to consistent enforcement and urged public cooperation to achieve a cleaner, visually pleasing, and environmentally safe Mangaluru.