Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Aug 12: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has issued a strict order prohibiting the installation of flex boards and banners for upcoming religious or other festivals, as part of its ongoing drive to make the city “flex-free.” Anticipating a spike in such displays during festive seasons, the MCC has urged public cooperation under the slogan “Flex-free festivals, clean environment—everyone’s responsibility.”

The month will see a series of celebrations including Independence Day, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dasara, and harvest festivals. In previous years, the city saw an influx of flex and banners during such occasions. This year, however, officials have resolved to clamp down on them.

File photo

The civic body is continuously removing unauthorized hoardings, cut-outs, flex boards, banners, posters, and buntings across the city, stating that such displays damage the city’s aesthetics and harm the environment. Organisers using public spaces for social, religious, or political promotions have been warned of fines and criminal cases under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1981.

Rs 8,500 in fines collected
On August 11, officials carried out a removal drive at State Bank, Hampankatte, Pandeshwar, and Kankanady, taking down illegal cloth banners and collecting Rs 8,500 in penalties.

Public questions selective action
While residents have welcomed the move to control flex use, some have criticised the MCC for targeting festival-related decorations while ignoring political or government programme banners. Citizens have demanded equal enforcement against political displays as well.

Environmental hazard
Corporation Commissioner Ravichandra Naik stated that flex materials generate large amounts of solid waste, posing serious environmental hazards. He reiterated that installing flex boards and banners is not permitted under the law, and violators will face fines and criminal prosecution.