23 January,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The BMC has removed around 41 unauthorised banners from parts of city. Pic/Special Arrangement
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday said that it has filed multiple FIRs during a crackdown on illegal banners in city and removed at least 41 unauthorised banners from parts of Mumbai.
An official statement said that the civic body has taken strict action against individuals and organisations for putting up unauthorised banners in public places across Mumbai.
Despite the civic body providing designated spaces for temporary advertisements, several banners were found illegally installed on electric poles and along roadsides without prior permission, officials said.
"The BMC's Licensing Department has registered cases against unidentified persons at Gamdevi, Malabar Hill and Dr D. B. Marg police stations. The action was taken on January 21 and 22, 2026, during which 41 unauthorised banners were removed," an official statement said.
The Mumbai civic body has appealed to organisations, associations and businesses to display advertisements only at approved locations and after obtaining proper permission.
The operation was carried out under the guidance of Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Special) Chanda Jadhav. Removal drives were conducted in several areas including Peddar Road, Pandita Ramabai Road, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Walkeshwar, Malabar Hill, Dr Dadasaheb Bhadkamkar Road, Maulana Shaukat Ali Road, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Road and Raja Ram Mohan Roy Road.
Based on complaints and findings, First Information Reports (FIRs) were formally submitted and registered at the concerned police stations.
The BMC stated that, as per directions of the High Court, it is strictly prohibited to display any banner, hoarding or poster in public places without prior permission.
Unauthorised advertisements violate provisions of the Maharashtra Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1995, and relevant sections of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, including Sections 328, 328A and 471. Offenders may face criminal cases and legal proceedings.
The BMC has urged citizens to report unauthorised banners and hoardings by calling the toll-free helpline number 1916.
Complaints can also be registered through the BMC's official website www.mcgm.gov.in and on social media platforms including official X account.
The civic body has made it clear that strict enforcement will continue against all illegal advertisements in public spaces.
