Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) has initiated a drive to remove unauthorized posters, banners, and flex boards from across the city, aiming for a poster-free Guntur. The campaign began on May 16, 2024, responding to public complaints and court directives regarding visual pollution.
Twelve enforcement teams, each comprising five members—including sanitary workers and officials—have been formed to execute the removal process. These teams are responsible for identifying and dismantling illegal advertisements in all zones of the city.
The GMC is focusing on removing posters from public properties like walls, electric poles, and bus shelters. Private properties displaying unauthorized advertisements will also be addressed, with owners issued notices and potential penalties if non-compliant.
Offenders face fines ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the size and nature of the advertisement, as per the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporations Act, 1998. Repeat offenders will be subject to stricter penalties.
The GMC intends to create designated spaces for advertising, allowing for regulated and authorized displays. This includes exploring options for advertising kiosks and digital displays. The corporation emphasizes that only advertisements with proper permissions will be permitted.
Commissioner KVN Chakradhar Babu stated the drive is not merely about removal but about creating a visually appealing and organized city. He urged citizens and political parties to cooperate with the initiative and utilize authorized advertising methods. The GMC is also encouraging citizens to report illegal advertisements through a dedicated helpline number. The long-term goal is to maintain a poster-free environment and prevent the recurrence of visual clutter. The initiative is being monitored closely by senior officials to ensure effective implementation and sustained results.
