Strict action against illegal hoardings, parking: Dy CM

Patna: Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha has ordered launch of a drive against the proliferation of illegal hoardings and unauthorised parking in the state capital, warning that the mafia behind these activities will face strict action.In a high-level review meeting of the urban development and housing department (UDHD) held on Wednesday, the deputy CM issued directives that all illegal hoardings within Patna municipal limits, except those cases currently pending before the Patna high court, must be removed within the next 24 hours. Additionally, he ordered that all illegally operated parking facilities be shut down immediately.Sinha, who also holds the UDHD portfolio, described the unchecked growth of illegal hoardings and parking as a major source of revenue leakage to the state exchequer. He said, “The mafia operating under the guise of illegal hoardings and illegal parking will no longer be tolerated under any circumstances. Strict legal action will be taken against every person or group found involved. No one will be spared.”Officials present at the meeting informed the deputy CM that despite a department’s order issued 15 days ago for the removal of illegal hoardings in the Patna municipal area, only 18 have been pulled down so far. They also said that around 20 cases related to illegal hoardings remain pending in the Patna high court.Sinha instructed the department to approach the court through the advocate general and seek expedited hearings so that enforcement does not face further delays. He emphasised that this drive is not a routine administrative exercise or a mere formality. “Instead, it represents a serious effort to protect govt revenue, restore discipline in public spaces, and break the long-standing grip of mafia elements over Patna’s roads, markets and footpaths,” the minister said.The deputy CM made it clear that he will personally review the daily progress of the removal and enforcement operations, leaving no scope for negligence or laxity on the part of officials.