Despite action, defacement of public spaces continues

Despite repeated warnings, the defacement of public property in Rohtak city continues unabated. People are not hesitating to put up unauthorised hoardings, flex banners, posters and other promotional materials at public places while openly flouting rules and regulations. These actions not only violate civic laws but also deface public space and undermine ongoing beautification efforts.

Taking a serious note of it, the Rohtak Municipal Corporation (MC) issued 39 challans for putting up unauthorised publicity materials at public places in the city in the past two days. A total penalty of Rs 3.61 lakh has been slapped on the violators. The action was taken by the MC authorities under its ongoing “Haryana Shahar Swachhta Abhiyan 2025” that aimed at maintaining cleanliness in the city.

“Consistent efforts are being made under the cleanliness campaign, including beautification of intersections, murals and overall sanitation. However, the city continues to suffer due to the careless actions of some individuals who place illegal advertisements on walls, flyovers, roundabouts and key public areas, thereby adversely affecting the city’s image,” said Anand Kumar Sharma, Commissioner, MC.

Further, the commissioner made it clear that those who failed to pay the penalty within the stipulated time would have to face registration of FIRs.

“Today, two individuals responsible for putting up unauthorised posters were summoned to the MC office and instructed to remove their posters voluntarily. Failure to comply will result in the MC removing these and recovering the expenses directly from the offenders,” said a MC official.

He maintained that in addition, several posters have already been removed, and fines had been levied against those responsible.

During a meeting held on Saturday with the technical branch, instructions were issued to ensure cleanliness tasks were integrated with regular duties, and that the enforcement teams took strict action against those polluting the city.

Offenders must be challaned without delay.

The commissioner further said advertising in municipal areas was only permitted at designated sites with prior approval from the Municipal Corporation. “Any unauthorised hoardings, flexes, or posters are strictly prohibited. The cost of removal and any associated damages will also be recovered from the violators, who will be held accountable,” he added.