PCMC imposes stricter measures on hoarding structural safety, holds agencies accountable

Pimpri, 16 April 2024 :- In a bid to enhance public safety and prevent potential hazards during adverse weather conditions, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has taken decisive steps regarding the structural integrity of advertisement hoardings within its limits.

PCMC officials convened a crucial meeting on April 15, chaired by Joint Commissioner Chandrakant Indalkar and Deputy Commissioner Sandip Khot, alongside representatives from 26 advertising agencies operating within the PCMC jurisdiction. The meeting focused on addressing concerns related to the structural stability of hoardings, particularly during the impending monsoon season.

Expressing apprehension over past incidents of hoarding collapses causing both loss of life and financial damage, PCMC has issued a stern directive to all hoarding owners and advertising agencies. They mandated a thorough structural inspection of all approved hoardings, ensuring their resilience against stormy winds and heavy rains. Furthermore, any structures found to be weak or compromised are to be promptly removed to avert potential disasters.

PCMC has stipulated that structural assessments for hoardings with pending permissions subject to legal proceedings must be completed by the end of April 2024-25, with certificates of compliance to be submitted to the Sky sign and license department. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in individual liability, shifting responsibility from the Municipal Corporation to the respective hoarding owners and agencies.

Emphasizing accountability, Deputy Commissioner Sandip Khot said that structural engineers certifying the stability of hoardings will be personally liable for any subsequent damage or collapse. This measure aims to ensure a proactive approach towards public safety and mitigate risks associated with unstable hoarding structures.