A survey conducted by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) found that 60 out of 62 billboards in Mumbai do not have the necessary ‘no objection certificate’ (NOC) from the state-run organization.
In a statement released on Friday, MHADA explained that the survey was undertaken in response to directives from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
This action follows the collapse of a hoarding in Ghatkopar on May 13, which led to 17 deaths and over 70 injuries. In the past two months, MHADA has issued notices to the owners of unauthorized hoardings, demanding their immediate removal.
The agency also warned that non-compliance would result in the enforced dismantling of these structures with assistance from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
MHADA’s statement emphasized that although these hoardings had received approval from the BMC, they lacked MHADA’s NOC, necessitating swift corrective action. The BMC has issued show cause notices to advertisers, demanding they submit MHADA’s NOC within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply will lead to the revocation of advertising permits and legal action under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act 1888, according to the release.
Also Read: Shocking Video: Lucknow Salon Worker Spits On Customer During Massage
Additionally, MHADA and BMC have jointly removed a 40-foot by 40-foot hoarding installed at Shubh Jeevan Cooperative Housing Society in Juhu without MHADA’s approval.
Sanjeev Jaiswal, vice president and chief executive officer of MHADA, emphasized their commitment to regulatory compliance and public safety, stating that this operation highlights their dedication to protecting public spaces from unauthorized structures and ensuring the safety of citizens.
Also Read: Jaipur: Tragic AC Blast Claims Lives Of Interior Designer And Retired Bank Manager
