Ranchi Municipal Corporation Cracks Down on Illegal Banners, Collects Rs 19.5 Lakh in Fines

Ranchi: Intensifying its crackdown on illegal banners, posters and hoardings across the city, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation has begun penalising erring establishments.

The enforcement drive, RMC said, is being conducted against the establishments who have not obtained an approval from the civic body for displaying their advertisements in public spaces. The RMC consent, officials said, is mandatory under the Jharkhand Municipal Act of 2011.

“During the special campaign, banners, posters and flexes installed illegally on walls and public places are being removed, seized and penalties are being imposed on the concerned institutions,” the RMC said in a statement on Saturday.

On Friday, the market branch team of RMC removed eight illegal advertisements from Kutchery Road and Dangratoli Chowk. Officials said fines were imposed on the establishments found violating the rules. As per the corporation, penalties of Rs 25,000 per institution are being levied under relevant provisions of the Act.

The civic body said 78 establishments have been penalised this month for flouting the rules, and penalties to the tune of Rs 19.5 lakh have been collected so far. “In case of continued violation, the process of cancelling trade licences of the concerned institutions will also be initiated,” the civic body said.

Residents have largely welcomed the move, citing the visual clutter and safety issues caused by such adverts. “These posters and flexes make the city look messy and often cover traffic signs,” said Ramesh Verma, a resident of Dangratoli. Another local, Sunita Kumari, said, “Many banners are tied to electric poles and walls. They come loose during rain or wind and can be dangerous for pedestrians.”

RMC has appealed to citizens, institutions and business owners not to install advertisements on walls, govt or private buildings, bridges and electric poles without permission. “Such activities not only spoil the city’s appearance but are also punishable under the law,” the civic body said.



Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here