Karachi authorities have decided to remove all illegal billboards, banners, and hoardings installed on public property across the city following a high-level meeting chaired by Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi.
The decision was taken during a meeting attended by senior officials from the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), deputy commissioners, town municipal administrations, cantonment boards, and representatives of outdoor advertising associations.
Illegal Advertising Structures Identified
During the briefing, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Sajjad Abro presented details of court directives issued by the Supreme Court and the High Court regarding unauthorized outdoor advertising.
Officials identified multiple illegal installations across the city, including:
- Billboards on public property
- Unauthorized banners and hoardings
- Gantries and advertising structures without approval
Authorities stated that such installations violate existing regulations and court orders.
Strict Action Ordered Against Violations
Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi directed all relevant departments to take immediate action against illegal advertising structures and those responsible for them.
It was also decided that deputy commissioners, KMC, town administrations, and cantonment boards will ensure full enforcement of court orders related to outdoor advertising.
Officials further agreed that legal proceedings, including cases, will be initiated against both responsible officers and advertising agencies found violating the rules.
Safety Concerns Also Highlighted
Authorities also raised concerns about unsafe billboards and hoardings installed on private property, noting that these structures can pose serious risks during heavy winds and monsoon rains.
To address this issue, vigilance committees will be formed in all towns. These committees will include experts and architects tasked with inspecting the structural safety of advertising installations.
Removal Ahead of Monsoon Season
Officials decided that unsafe billboards, banners, and hoardings will be removed before the upcoming monsoon season to reduce the risk of accidents caused by storms or heavy rainfall.
The commissioner also instructed departments to improve safety inspection standards and warned that responsibility for any monsoon-related incidents caused by unsafe structures will lie with the concerned municipal authorities, who may face action in case of negligence.
