The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has generated a significant revenue stream from advertisements displayed on Metro rail pillars, earning over Rs3.4 crore in the past two financial years. According to civic administration data, the PMC collected Rs1,15,75,680 as fees from advertisements on Metro pillars from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Subsequently, it received Rs2,25,18,315 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, through such advertisements.
Future Revenue Growth
This revenue is expected to increase as the Metro network expands across the city. The fees for advertisement boards on Metro pillars are managed by the licence and sky sign department of the municipal corporation. Buoyed by this income, the civic administration is now considering offering other municipal properties for advertising.
Traffic Expert Concerns
However, traffic experts have cautioned against rampant advertising, warning that it could distract motorists and create visual blind spots at public places. Sanjay Shitole of Pune City Eye, a citizens' group, emphasized that clear guidelines from monitoring agencies and expert groups must be followed. He noted that neon lights in advertisements are particularly dangerous and could lead to mishaps.
Proposal for More Advertising Spaces
Despite these concerns, the municipal administration has invited proposals from agencies for advertisement hoardings on various municipal properties, including bridges, footbridges, and streetlights. Under the plan, a total of 2,71,152 square feet of space will be made available at 4,219 locations across the city. If the PMC's general body approves the policy, advertising spaces will be provided at:
- Eight locations on footbridges
- 200 locations on municipal properties
- 28 locations on flyovers
- 12 locations in subways
- 25 locations in civic amenities
- 4,023 locations on streetlights
Revenue-Sharing Disputes
The PMC's terms and conditions for the advertising proposal have raised eyebrows. Companies participating in the bid must have a minimum turnover of Rs100 crore in advertising business for five consecutive years. Additionally, instead of charging rent, the PMC wants a 30% share of the revenue generated from advertisements. Ujwal Keskar of Apale Pune, Aapla Parisar organization, stated that these conditions are likely to lead to disputes and emphasized the need for a clear, well-researched policy to increase revenue through advertising.
