The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has taken a strong stance against the defacement of public property, collecting a substantial sum in penalties during a recent enforcement drive. In December last year, the civic body collected approximately Rs 30.25 lakh as fines from various institutions and establishments for illegally erecting posters, banners, and flex boards across the city.
Widespread Violations and Swift Action
This crackdown was part of a sustained effort to curb the defacement of public spaces and strictly enforce advertising norms. Officials identified a total of 121 institutions and establishments that were found violating provisions of the Jharkhand Municipal Act, 2011. Each violator was slapped with a uniform fine of Rs 25,000 for displaying advertisements in public places without obtaining prior permission.
Special enforcement teams from the RMC were deployed across major stretches of the city. They actively removed and seized unauthorised advertising materials from walls, electric poles, road dividers, and public buildings. Recent clean-up operations specifically targeted prominent areas like Kutchery Road and Dangratoli, where illegal advertisements were systematically taken down.
Strict Measures Against Defaulters
While many violators paid up, the civic body faces resistance from several others. Officials stated that despite repeated notices and letters, a number of institutions failed to deposit the penalty amount. Action is now being planned against 26 defaulting establishments that have ignored the fines.
An official statement warned that strict measures are on the cards. If these defaulters continue to evade payment, the RMC will initiate proceedings that could lead to the cancellation of their trade licences, along with other punitive actions allowed under municipal laws.
Public Applauds Drive for Safety and Aesthetics
The corporation's drive has received a positive response from Ranchi's residents, who have long been troubled by visual clutter and safety hazards. Locals argue that unregulated advertisements not only spoil the city's appearance but also create risks.
"Posters are pasted everywhere, even near traffic signals. They hide important signboards and make the entire city look messy and cluttered," said Ramesh Verma, a resident of Lalpur.
Echoing safety concerns, commuter Sunita Kumari pointed out the physical dangers posed by poorly secured flex boards. "During heavy rain or strong winds, these loose banners can tear off and fall, potentially injuring pedestrians," she explained.
On the other side, those involved in the advertisement installation business admit that the practice of putting up materials without permission is rampant. An installer based in Kokar revealed, "Clients often ask us to paste posters overnight without any official paperwork. Their primary focus is on visibility, not rules."
RMC officials have affirmed that this crackdown is not a one-time event but a continuing mission. The goal is to maintain a clean, orderly, and visually uncluttered cityscape for all citizens of Ranchi.
