In a major pre-election drive, the Panvel City Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has launched a significant crackdown on unauthorized political advertising across Navi Mumbai. This action comes directly after the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the upcoming municipal corporation elections.
Widespread Removal of Illegal Hoardings
The civic body's teams have been working tirelessly to clear the city's visual landscape. A total of 2,783 illegal banners have been pulled down from areas falling under four key ward offices. In a parallel action, approximately 620 advertisements that were installed at bus stops and other public places have either been removed or covered up to comply with the electoral guidelines.
Ward-Wise Breakdown of the Clean-Up
The removal operation was extensive and targeted. The Kharghar ward office zone saw the highest number of actions, with 1,191 banners being removed. Following this, the Kamothe ward office area witnessed the removal of 760 illegal banners. Under the Kalamboli ward office's jurisdiction, 510 banners were taken down, while the Panvel ward office saw 322 banners removed.
Officials have stated that the drive is ongoing and part of a strict adherence to the election code. The PCMC administration has issued a clear warning, promising stringent action against any individual or group found violating the code of conduct in the lead-up to the polls.
Details of the Upcoming PCMC Election
The election for the Panvel City Municipal Corporation is a significant democratic exercise. The corporation operates under a panel system encompassing 20 wards. Voters will elect a total of 78 corporators to represent them. The distribution is such that four corporators each will be elected from 18 of the wards. The remaining two wards will elect three corporators each.
The election is officially scheduled to be held on January 15, 2026. The current enforcement of the model code of conduct marks the beginning of the regulated period for all political activities, ensuring a level playing field and preventing the misuse of public property for campaign purposes.
The removal of thousands of banners underscores the administration's commitment to conducting free and fair elections. It also addresses longstanding concerns about visual pollution and illegal use of public spaces for unauthorized advertising, setting a precedent for civic discipline.
