SHOCKING! Days after Ghatkopar case, investigation reveals 60 of 62 billboards in Mumbai did not get government approval – Republic World

Mumbai: In the city of dreams, as many as 60 out of 62 billboards installed do not have the required ‘no objection certificate’ (NOC) from the public body, increasing the risk of unwanted incidents, a revealed a survey conducted by the Maharashtra Housing and Area. Development Authority (MHADA).

The probe, carried out on the orders of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, comes after the collapse of a hoarding in Ghatkopar on May 13, which left 17 people dead and 70 injured.

Since the Ghatkopar hoarding collapse incident, MHADA has issued a warning to owners of unauthorized hoardings, demanding their immediate removal from the board.

The agency has issued a warning that failure to comply with the orders will result in forcible dismantling of these signs with the help of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

“The BMC has issued show cause notices to advertisers, requiring them to submit the NOC of MHADA within a specified time frame. Failure to comply with these rules will result in revocation of advertising permits and legal action under the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888,” an official statement said.

Moreover, MHADA and BMC jointly removed a 40 feet by 40 feet hoarding erected at Shubh Jeevan Cooperative Housing Society in Juhu without MHADA’s approval.

“We are committed to ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and protecting public spaces from unauthorized structures. This operation highlights our commitment to public safety. The safety of our citizens is paramount,” said Sanjeev Jaiswal, vice-chairman and managing director, MHADA.