Pune: Hoarding At PMC Gate Removed After Backlash
Shivajinagar, 17th May 2024: The hoarding erected at the PMC main building gate disregarded orders from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner. Following heavy media criticism, the overnight hoarding has been removed.
The contractor from PMPML claimed to have obtained permission from PMC’s Sky Signs and Licenses Department for the hoardings. This discrepancy has sparked a debate over responsibility.
PMC Commissioner Dr Rajendra Bhosale recently ordered the removal of hoardings, especially those resulting from tree felling. Yet, hoardings were found erected at PMC’s gate, leading to public outcry. Meanwhile, a hoarding collapse in Mumbai that claimed 16 lives has prompted statewide reviews of hoardings.
The PMC set up a charging station for e-vehicles in front of its newly expanded building, where controversy ensued over hoarding placement. The PMC officials’ facilitative stance regarding hoardings across the city has drawn attention.
According to Public Relations Officer Satish Ghate, PMPML awarded the contract for hoarding erection, obtaining necessary permits from PMC. However, permissions were later revoked due to oversight.
Madhav Jagtap from the Sky Sign Department stated that PMPML granted permissions but not for the location near PMC’s gate, leading to the hoarding’s removal.
Vivek Velankar, president of the Sajag Nagrik Manch, criticised the lack of oversight by PMC officials, asserting the Corporation’s responsibility.
Maharashtra State Government rules stipulate that hoardings exceeding 40 feet in height are prohibited on roads. Additionally, billboards are not permitted on sidewalks or public roads, and projections onto public streets without sidewalks are prohibited.
