Pune: The Kothrud area is grappling with the rampant proliferation of unauthorized flex banners, especially between Nal Stop and Chandani Chowk, leading to a significant aesthetic and functional degradation of the locality.
The banners, which include a mix of political, social, and commercial promotions, are creating substantial obstacles for traffic flow.
Despite regulations prohibiting the placement of flex banners on metro pillars, hundreds of such banners have been illegally affixed, further exacerbating the issue. Additionally, many banners have torn due to adverse weather conditions, littering the roads and posing a hazard.
The municipal corporation's sky sign department has come under scrutiny for its apparent inaction on this matter, with residents expressing frustration over the lack of enforcement.
Key areas affected include Vanaz Corner, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Statue, Kothrud Gaothan, and several others where the illegal banners are most prevalent.
Private Contractors Behind Unauthorized Banners
Private contractors, whose fees vary according to the size of the banner, are installing these illegal banners.
Due to an alleged coordination between these contractors and municipal officials, the banners often remain in place for days without removal. Contractors handle everything from printing to placement, with prices ranging from ₹250 for smaller banners to ₹1800 for larger ones.
Residents Express Discontent
Kothrud Residents like Advocate Amol Kale have voiced their displeasure, stating that all political parties are engaging in a race to deface the area with unauthorized banners.
"Ordinary citizens are against such disfigurement, and political leaders should not assume that people appreciate these illegal flex banners," Kale remarked.
But according to municipal officials, precautions are taken to make sure banners do not hurt people or impede traffic, as mentioned by Nilesh Gholap of Kothrud's Sky Sign License Department.
Residents like Sunil Mahajan, the President of the Kothrud Natya Parishad, on the other hand, disagree, pointing out that this issue has gotten worse because of the administration's carelessness.
Because of the banners, people are unable to even stroll on the sidewalks, and traffic is regularly obstructed. "Citizens can't even walk on the footpaths due to the banners, and traffic is frequently disrupted. The rules were openly flouted during the Dahi Handi celebrations," Mahajan said, calling for stricter enforcement to improve the quality of life in Kothrud.