Crackdown on illegal advertisements in Karnal city

The Karnal Municipal Corporation has intensified its drive against illegal advertisements defacing public property across the city. MC Commissioner Dr Vaishali Sharma said 90 challans were issued and fines amounting to Rs 9 lakh was imposed on persons and institutions violating advertisement norms.

The corporation’s advertisement branch is actively conducting field operations twice a week for identifying and removing unauthorised hoardings, posters, stickers and flexboards from public and private properties. These include flyovers, walls, electric and streetlight poles and public beautification spots.

Sharma emphasised that the indiscriminate placement of such materials degraded the city’s aesthetics and would not be tolerated. In addition to the fines, nearly 70 notices were served on people and for the removal of illegal advertisements. She warned that displaying advertisements without permission was a punishable offence under the Haryana Municipal Advertisement Bye-laws, 2022. Offenders might face not only fines but also legal action, including FIRs. “Any person or institution willing to display advertisements must seek prior approval from the MC office. Applications can be submitted online through the official portal: ulb.project247.in,” said the Commissioner.

Sharma further cautioned that no advertisement should be displayed outside authorised sites. Strict legal action, including fines, would be taken against those who do not comply. She also issued a warning to printing press operators.