Pune: Metro rail pillars are not only supporting the city's green public transport but also contributing significantly to the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) revenue. The PMC earned over Rs 3.4 crore from advertisements on Metro pillars in the past two fiscal years.
According to civic administration data, the PMC collected Rs 1,15,75,680 as fees from advertisements on Metro pillars from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Subsequently, it received Rs 2,25,18,315 from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, through advertisements on these structures.
This revenue is expected to increase as the Metro network expands across the city. The fees for advertisement boards on Metro pillars are charged through the licence and sky sign department of the municipal corporation.
PMC Plans to Expand Advertising to Other Properties
Buoyed by the revenue from Metro pillars, the civic administration is considering offering its other properties for advertising. However, traffic experts have cautioned against such rampant advertising, warning that it could cause problems for commuters and distract motorists.
Sanjay Shitole of Pune City Eye, a citizens' group, stated, "Visual blind spots will develop at public places if such advertisements are allowed. There are clear guidelines of various monitoring agencies and expert groups regarding roadside advertising. These must be followed while making any decisions. The use of neon lights for such advertisements is dangerous and can lead to mishaps."
Nevertheless, the municipal administration has invited proposals from agencies for advertisement hoardings on municipal properties, including bridges, footbridges, and streetlights. According to the plan, a total of 2,71,152 square feet of space will be made available at 4,219 locations across the city for advertisements.
Proposed Locations for Advertising
If the PMC's general body approves the policy, advertising space 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, and 4,023 locations on streetlights.
The PMC's terms and conditions, and the revenue-sharing formula in the proposal to advertising agencies, have raised several eyebrows. According to the proposal, companies participating in the bid must have a minimum turnover of Rs 100 crore in advertising business consistently for five consecutive years. Also, instead of charging the selected company any rent, the PMC wants 30% of the revenue generated from advertisements.
Ujwal Keskar of Apale Pune, Aapla Parisar organisation, said, "Both these conditions are likely to lead to a dispute. A clear and well-researched policy is essential to increase revenue through advertising."
