Bhubaneswar, 25 February (H.S.): The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a city-wide drive to remove unauthorized hoardings beginning March 6, following a tragic incident that claimed two lives.

Mayor Sulochana Das said public safety would take precedence over revenue considerations after a massive display hoarding collapsed near the Patrapada–Aiginia Durga Puja Mandap on Tuesday evening during strong gusty winds. The accident left two persons dead and several others injured.

After visiting the site, the Mayor stated that the city would no longer tolerate illegal structures that endanger citizens.

Speaking to mediapersons, she said hoardings without valid structural safety certificates would be removed and strict action would be taken against responsible agencies.

“Landowners may receive payments for hosting hoardings, but they must ensure structural safety certification. The collapsed hoarding was privately installed, and action will be taken against the agency involved. If necessary, the agency will be blacklisted,” she said.

Officials added that any hoarding lacking mandatory structural approval will be dismantled as part of the enforcement drive.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda