Patna Municipal Corporation Implements Stringent Measures Against Unauthorized Advertisements
In a decisive move to regulate urban advertising, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) convened a special council meeting on Friday, chaired by Mayor Sita Sahu. The council unanimously resolved to take strict action against unauthorized advertisements, including illegal hoardings, which have proliferated across the city. This initiative marks a significant step toward restoring order and enhancing civic aesthetics in Patna.
New Regulatory Framework and Agency Registration Mandate
During the meeting, the Patna Municipal Corporation Advertisement (Amendment) Regulation Draft, 2025 was approved. A key provision mandates that all advertising agencies must register directly with the corporation within the next ten days. This registration is now a legal prerequisite; without it, no agency will have the authority to place advertisements in Patna. The policy aims to dismantle the monopoly held by specific agencies by categorizing the city's roads into three tiers: primary main roads, main roads, and other roads.
Revenue Enhancement and Penalty Increases
PMC Commissioner Yashpal Meena presented a comprehensive report highlighting the current state of the advertisement system. He revealed that Patna's income from advertisements is negligible compared to other major cities, with 54 active agencies owing the corporation a staggering Rs108 crore in outstanding dues. Notices have been issued for payment, but the lack of a clear policy and irregular collection practices have resulted in an estimated revenue loss ranging from Rs840 crore to Rs1,440 crore since 2014.
To address this, the new regulations propose increased penalties to control the influence of advertising agencies. Additionally, the PMC will receive 25% of advertising revenue from the Railways, with similar proposals for 25% shares from advertisements at the metro and airport. The entire licensing process will be transitioned online to ensure transparency and eliminate middlemen, with agencies required to obtain a centralized license valid for three years. Registration fees are set at Rs1.50 lakh, with a renewal fee of Rs60,000.
Pricing and Zoning Recommendations
While the government has established a minimum rate of Rs10 per square foot, councillors advocated for further subdivision of zones into sub-zones with higher charges. Councillor Ashish Kumar Sinha proposed raising the base rate to at least Rs50 per square foot to better reflect Patna's economic potential and market value.
Safety Measures and Civic Benefits
The new regulations also include safety provisions, such as banning advertisements that use colors or shapes resembling traffic signals to prevent driver distractions. LED advertisements are required to reduce brightness after midnight to minimize light pollution. Mayor Sita Sahu emphasized that this policy represents a milestone in strengthening Patna's internal revenue, with funds generated from advertisements earmarked for augmenting civic facilities and improving public infrastructure.
This comprehensive approach aims to break the cycle of illegal advertisements, boost municipal income, and foster a more organized and visually appealing urban environment in Patna.
