Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Sulochana Das has announced a crackdown on illegal hoardings in the city, stating that lives are more important than money.
Mayor’s decision came after two persons were killed and several others injured after a giant display hoarding collapsed near Patrapada–Aiginia Durga Puja Mandap here on Tuesday evening amid strong gusty winds.
Following a site visit, Das declared that the city will no longer tolerate unauthorized hoardings, especially those posing a risk to public safety.
Talking to mediapersons, Das said, “Hoardings without structural certificates will be removed, and those responsible will face action. BMC will begin removing illegal hoardings from March 6.”
“Landowners receive payments for hosting hoardings, but they must ensure structural certificates are in place. The collapsed hoarding was privately installed, and the agency responsible will face BMC action. If necessary, BMC will black list this agency. If the required structural certificate is not provided, illegal hoardings will be removed from Bhubaneswar. Public safety is our priority,” said Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das after visiting the accident site.
