Mangaluru: Acting on directions from the state government, the district administration has ordered the immediate removal of unauthorised flex boards, banners and hoardings across the city. In response, officials of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) have launched a special enforcement drive to clear illegal displays from public spaces and roadsides.
The action follows instructions from Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who directed authorities to take stringent measures against the installation of unauthorised advertisements and flex boards. The move comes amid growing concerns over public safety, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season.
Increase in unauthorised displays raises concern
In recent days, several prominent locations across the city witnessed a sharp increase in the number of unauthorised hoardings, flex boards and banners. Many of these displays had reportedly been erected to congratulate the newly appointed Chief Minister and other public figures.
Officials noted that several structures were installed without obtaining the required permissions from civic authorities, leading to concerns about encroachment on public spaces and obstruction of traffic movement.
The district administration observed that the unchecked proliferation of such displays not only affects the city’s appearance but also creates safety hazards for the public.
Monsoon risks prompt urgent action
Authorities have expressed concern that the intensifying monsoon along the coastal belt has increased the danger posed by unauthorised flex boards and hoardings.
Strong winds and heavy rainfall can weaken temporary structures, increasing the likelihood of them collapsing onto roads, vehicles or pedestrians. Officials warned that such incidents could result in injuries, property damage and disruptions to traffic.
To prevent potential accidents, the administration directed civic authorities to identify and remove all unsafe and illegally erected structures without delay.
Illegal banners removed from key locations
As part of the special drive, MCC officials have already removed several unauthorised banners and flex boards from various parts of the city.
The enforcement operation covered locations including Padil, Pumpwell, Kannur and Jeppinamogaru, where officials found displays obstructing roads, public spaces and pedestrian movement.
Authorities stated that priority was given to removing structures that posed an immediate threat to public safety or had been erected in a hazardous manner.
The drive is expected to continue in other areas of the city as officials conduct inspections and identify additional violations.
Warning of penalties and legal action
The Deputy Commissioner has issued a strong warning against the installation of advertisements without prior approval from the competent authorities.
Individuals, organisations and agencies found erecting unauthorised flex boards, banners or hoardings will face substantial penalties and legal proceedings. Officials have urged organisers of public events, celebrations and promotional campaigns to comply with existing regulations before displaying any advertisements.
The administration has reiterated that strict enforcement measures will continue to ensure public safety and adherence to civic norms.
Civic officials to be held accountable
The district administration has also warned civic officials against negligence in enforcing the regulations.
Authorities stated that any delay in removing unauthorised structures or failure to act on violations could attract accountability under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
Officials responsible for monitoring and enforcement may be held directly accountable if accidents, disruptions or other incidents occur due to illegal hoardings and flex boards remaining in place.
The administration has appealed to the public to cooperate with the ongoing drive and report unauthorised installations so that timely action can be taken to ensure safety during the monsoon season.