Cuttack Municipal Corporation Launches Safety Drive to Remove Unsafe Hoardings
The Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has launched a comprehensive safety drive on Thursday, targeting the identification and removal of unsafe hoardings across the city. This initiative focuses on old, rusted, and illegally installed structures that may pose significant risks to pedestrians and motorists, ensuring enhanced public safety in urban areas.
Special Team Formed for Thorough Inspections
A dedicated CMC team, comprising officials from the engineering and enforcement wings, will conduct meticulous inspections in key commercial and residential zones. Mayor Subhash Singh stated, "The safety audit has been initiated as a precautionary measure. Following the recent incident in Bhubaneswar, we have decided to thoroughly inspect all hoardings in Cuttack. Public safety is our top priority and no compromise will be tolerated." This proactive approach aims to prevent potential accidents by addressing structural weaknesses and unauthorized installations.
Immediate Actions and Penalties for Non-Compliance
Mayor Singh emphasized that hoardings found to be structurally weak or erected without proper permission will be removed immediately. "We will issue notices to agencies and advertisers concerned. If they fail to comply within the stipulated time, CMC will take action, including dismantling the structures and imposing penalties," he warned. This strict enforcement underscores the civic body's commitment to maintaining safety standards and holding stakeholders accountable.
Priority Areas and Norm Verification
Officials highlighted that areas with high footfall, such as marketplaces, busy road junctions, and near educational institutes, will be inspected on priority. The civic body will also verify whether hoardings adhere to prescribed size, height, and safety norms. This targeted inspection strategy ensures that the most vulnerable locations are addressed first, minimizing risks to the public.
Appeal for Cooperation and Future Prevention
The mayor urged advertisers and building owners to ensure that their hoardings are securely installed and regularly maintained. "We appeal to all stakeholders to cooperate with the civic body in this drive. Our aim is to prevent any untoward incident in the future," Singh said. This collaborative effort is essential for fostering a safer urban environment and preventing accidents related to advertising structures.
Ongoing Drive and Reporting
The inspection drive is expected to continue over the next few days, with a detailed report to be prepared thereafter. This sustained effort reflects CMC's dedication to thoroughness and transparency in addressing public safety concerns, ensuring that all unsafe hoardings are systematically identified and removed.
