Unauthorised banners continue to pose safety risk to pedestrians and drivers in Tiruchi

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A huge hoarding installed near the entrance to a cross street on Thillainagar Main Road in Tiruchi. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Unauthorised banners and flex boards continue to pose a safety risk to motorists and pedestrians along several major roads in Tiruchi, despite repeated steps by the authorities to regulate their installation.

Mannarpuram, Karumandapam, Karur Bypass, Thillainagar, Vayalur Road, Cantonment, and Major Saravanan Road are among the areas where the problem is particularly noticeable. The banners are often placed close to intersections and along stretches with heavy vehicular movement.

Such banners, often erected on roadsides, medians, and near junctions, obstruct visibility and distract motorists. They also block road signs and traffic signals and the visibility of vehicles approaching from side roads. In some locations, banners fixed to roadside poles and temporary frames leave very little room for pedestrians.

Some structures are installed on temporary frames that could collapse during strong winds and rain, raising concerns about their stability, particularly during the monsoon.

Giant flex boards are commonly put up for religious events and festivals, marriages, and other family functions. Political party cadre erect flex boards to mark the birthdays and anniversaries of their leaders.

Residents have expressed concern over the continued proliferation of such banners, particularly along busy stretches where traffic movement is heavy. They have urged the authorities to conduct regular inspections and remove unauthorised banners promptly.

Under the existing regulations, obtaining no-objection certificate from the Corporation, the police and the district administration is mandatory before putting up hoardings and banners. However, the rule continues to be violated, with banners being installed without the required permissions.

A senior Corporation official said that officials would identify and remove unauthorised banners and take action against those responsible for erecting them.

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