Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sep 18: The Mangaluru City Corporation has launched a drive to remove unauthorized flexes and banners that have once again mushroomed across the city in the name of festivals and Navaratri celebrations. Removal operations have already begun in several parts of the city. However, new flexes continue to be installed, prompting the public to demand stricter action from the corporation.
On Wednesday, officials began dismantling flexes put up at various locations. Despite repeated warnings not to install unauthorized flexes and banners, such displays have continued to appear. To tackle this, the corporation has formed zonal teams, which will intensify operations in the coming days.
Only cloth banners allowed
The corporation clarified that only cloth banners, installed with prior permission, are permitted in the city. To display such banners, advertisers must seek approval from the revenue department. A cloth banner measuring 6x5 feet can be put up for 15 days on payment of Rs 200. These must be stamped by the corporation before display and installed only in non-hazardous locations. Any banner not removed after the permitted duration will be treated as unauthorized.
No exemption for any festival
Commissioner Ravichandra Naik stressed that flexes and banners spoil the city’s beauty and that unauthorized installations are prohibited under the Karnataka Open Spaces Disfigurement Prevention Act. Offenders are liable for fines and even criminal cases.
He also dismissed rumors that exemptions had been granted for Dasara celebrations, clarifying that no such relaxation exists. He said the corporation remains committed to celebrating festivals in a flex-free manner while maintaining a clean environment. He sought public cooperation to uphold the rules and promote eco-friendly celebrations.
Public demands stricter enforcement
Citizens pointed out that the menace of flexes had reduced in recent months, making footpaths more accessible. However, in recent days, violations have increased, particularly under the guise of Navaratri celebrations.
Public opinion is strong that the law should apply equally to all, with no special exemptions. They demanded that all illegally erected flexes be removed, heavy fines imposed on violators, and removal expenses recovered from them. Action should also be taken against printers of such flexes, including license cancellation as per law. There were further calls to issue warnings to printing presses against producing unauthorized flexes.