BNCMC Cracks Down on Illegal Advertisements in Bhiwandi, Warns of Fines, Prosecution and Cost Recovery

Bhiwandi: The Bhiwandi Nizampur City Municipal Corporation (BNCMC) has started a special drive against illegal advertisements and property defacement across the city. Anyone caught putting up unauthorised banners, hoardings or posters faces criminal action, fines, and the bill for removing them.

The Public Relations Department’s notice covers anyone who puts up banners, flex boards, posters, hoardings, stickers or wall paintings without getting municipal permission first.

Drive targets public and private property

The drive targets public roads, footpaths, flyovers, electric poles, trees, retaining walls and government buildings. It also covers private property where ads have gone up in violation of the rules.

BNCMC wants citizens, businesses, advertising agencies, political parties, social and religious organisations, and event organisers to get approval before putting up anything within its jurisdiction.

Legal basis: two state laws

Two laws apply here. Displaying banners, posters, or wall paintings without authorisation is an offence under the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995. And under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949, advertisements require municipal permission and payment of fees regardless.

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Unauthorised ads will be taken down immediately, officials said. Action isn’t limited to the advertiser property owners, printers, agencies, and event organisers can all be held responsible. BNCMC said it will recover the full cost of removal from whoever’s responsible.

Residents asked to report violations

The corporation asked residents to report violations to their ward office, and reminded anyone planning to put up an ad in Bhiwandi to get permission first.