BMC Sets Festival Ad Rules For Ganeshotsav, Navratri

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued guidelines for festival advertisements during Ganeshotsav and Navratri, expected to draw lakhs of devotees to Mumbai's streets.

The civic body has warned mandals and advertisers against putting up commercial advertisements or hoardings that obstruct pedestrians or traffic, as part of its 'Pedestrian First' campaign. BMC chief Ashwini Bhide has appealed to citizens and festival organizers to ensure celebrations do not compromise pedestrian movement.

Under the guidelines, mandals have been advised not to display advertisements promoting gutkha and tobacco products or other prohibited goods. Donors can display commercial advertisements on the vertical sections of traditional entrance gates, while the upper horizontal section can carry a welcome message for devotees.

Mandals have also been encouraged to use advertising spaces for social and civic-awareness messages. Digital screens measuring up to 10 ft by 10 ft may be installed for public-interest, health-related and commercial messages, subject to obtaining No Objection Certificates from the Traffic Department and the local police station.

The BMC has made it clear that the rules will not end with the festivities, and mandals must remove their advertising boards themselves during the festival period and by the day after immersion at the latest. The civic administration has directed the licensing department to strictly enforce the advertising norms and remove obstructive boards immediately.

The move is aimed at making footpaths and roads more accessible and safer for pedestrians during the festivals. With lakhs of devotees expected to participate in the celebrations, the BMC is taking steps to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all.

Ganeshotsav and Navratri are significant festivals in Mumbai, and the BMC's guidelines are intended to balance the needs of festival organizers, advertisers, and pedestrians. The civic body's 'Pedestrian First' campaign is a broader initiative to improve pedestrian infrastructure and safety in the city.

The BMC's decision to regulate festival advertisements is a welcome move, as it will help to reduce congestion and improve safety on Mumbai's streets during the festivals. By enforcing the guidelines, the civic administration can ensure that the celebrations are enjoyable and safe for all participants.

In the coming weeks, Mumbai will witness large-scale celebrations for Ganeshotsav and Navratri, and the BMC's guidelines will play a crucial role in managing the festivities. The civic body's efforts to regulate festival advertisements are an important step towards creating a more pedestrian-friendly city.

The success of the BMC's guidelines will depend on the cooperation of festival organizers, advertisers, and citizens. By working together, Mumbai can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants in the festivals.

In conclusion, the BMC's guidelines for festival advertisements during Ganeshotsav and Navratri are a positive step towards improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in Mumbai. The civic body's efforts to regulate festival advertisements will help to reduce congestion and improve the overall experience of the festivals for all participants.