BMC Cracks Down on Illegal Banners Across Mumbai, Files FIRs at Three Police Stations
41 Unauthorised Hoardings Removed as Civic Body Warns of Continued Strict Action
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a strict enforcement drive against the unauthorised display of banners and temporary advertisements at public places across Mumbai, registering criminal cases at multiple police stations and removing dozens of illegal banners within just two days.
Despite the civic body having designated authorised locations for temporary advertisements within municipal limits, several organisations, associations and commercial entities were found installing banners illegally on electric poles and along public roads, violating existing norms. Acting against these violations, the BMC’s Licensing Department registered cases against unknown persons at Gamdevi Police Station, Malabar Hill Police Station and Dr D.B. Marg Police Station.
The action was carried out on January 21 and 22, 2026, during which a total of 41 unauthorised banners were removed from prominent city locations.
Wide Enforcement Across South Mumbai
Under the guidance of Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Special) Chanda Jadhav, the Licensing Department conducted removals across several key areas, including:
- Dr Gopalrao Deshmukh Marg (Peddar Road)
- Pandita Ramabai Marg
- Bhulabhai Desai Road
- Walkeshwar
- Malabar Hill
- Dr Dadasaheb Bhadkamkar Marg
- Maulana Shaukat Ali Road
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Road
- Raja Ram Mohan Roy Road
Following the drive, First Information Reports (FIRs) were formally submitted and registered at the concerned police stations.
High Court Directions and Legal Provisions
In line with directives issued by the Bombay High Court, the display of any banners, hoardings or posters without prior permission at public places within Mumbai is strictly prohibited.
The BMC has reiterated that public roads and footpaths within its jurisdiction cannot be used for advertisements without explicit prior approval from the municipal authority. Violators face legal action under:
- Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995
- Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888 — Sections 328 / 328A / 471
These provisions empower the civic body to register criminal cases and initiate court proceedings against individuals or organisations found violating the rules.
Civic Appeal and Citizen Participation
The BMC has appealed to all organisations and advertisers to display advertisements only at approved locations and after obtaining necessary permissions. It has also made clear that strict enforcement will continue against any future violations at public places.
To strengthen citizen participation, the civic body has urged residents to report unauthorised hoardings and banners through the toll-free helpline 1916. Complaints can also be lodged via the official municipal website and social media platforms:
- www.mcgm.gov.in
- @mybmc
With sustained enforcement and public cooperation, the BMC aims to curb visual pollution, ensure road safety, and uphold the rule of law in Mumbai’s public spaces.