The order noted that display boards/materials erected on structures in public places are highly susceptible to collapse leading to fatal accidents and injuries to pedestrians and commuters
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Puducherry government has invoked the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to ban the display for all types of banners, cutouts, hoardings, and flex boards for the next 15 days in Puducherry district due to the threat of a cyclonic storm.
In an order, District Collector-cum-Chairman of the Puducherry Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) A. Kulothungan said the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather warning indicating the formation of two separate low-pressure areas/depressions over the Bay of Bengal coast, significantly impacting Puducherry and Yanam regions of Puducherry district.
The ban on installation of all types of publicity materials that poses a threat to public safety will be in force till November 8 or until the severe weather warning is formally withdrawn by the IMD and subsequent directions from the PDMA.
“The forecast indicates an imminent threat of heavy to very heavy rainfall, high speed gales around 55 KMPH, and potential flooding, which constitutes a “threatening disaster situation” as defined under section (2) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. All types of publicity materials irrespective of their size should be removed,” the order said.
The order noted that display boards/materials erected on structures in public places are highly susceptible to collapse leading to fatal accidents and injuries to pedestrians and commuters. Besides, the collapse of such structures could obstruct movement of traffic and cause destruction to public property, including power distribution networks.
Mr. Kulothungan said the Commissioners of Municipalities, Commune Panchayats, and heads of Public Works Department and Police Stations have been directed to constitute special teams to monitor compliance, and in case of non-compliance of the order, remove such materials.
“The cost of removal will be recovered from those who have installed the display material. As the order was issued under the Disaster Management Act, the penalty for violation will be huge. The authorities on Saturday itself started removing banners and cutouts,“ he said.
The Collector has appealed to all political parties, organisations and public in general to comply with the order to avoid any rain-related disaster.
Published – October 25, 2025 01:28 pm IST
