Mangaluru: MCC bans festival flex boards with strict directive

Mangaluru: MCC bans festival flex boards with strict directive

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 12, 2025: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has issued a strict ban on flex boards and banners for upcoming religious and other festivals, as part of its ongoing “flex-free” campaign. Expecting a surge in such displays during the festive season, the civic body has called for public cooperation under the slogan “Flex-free festivals, clean environment—everyone’s responsibility.”

This month’s celebrations include Independence Day, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Dasara, and harvest festivals. In previous years, the city saw a spike in flex installations during these occasions, but officials have vowed to curb them this year.

MCC teams are regularly removing unauthorized hoardings, cut-outs, banners, posters, and buntings, citing their negative impact on the city’s aesthetics and the environment. Organisers using public spaces for social, religious, or political promotions face fines and possible criminal cases under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1981.

₹8,500 collected in fines

On August 11, officials conducted a removal drive at State Bank, Hampankatte, Pandeshwar, and Kankanady, dismantling illegal cloth banners and collecting ₹8,500 in penalties.

Selective action concerns

While many residents support the crackdown, some have criticised the MCC for focusing on festival decorations while overlooking political and government banners, urging equal enforcement across the board.

Environmental warning

Commissioner Ravichandra Naik said flex materials create large volumes of solid waste, posing serious environmental risks. He reiterated that installing flex boards and banners is illegal and violators will face fines and criminal action.