Citizens launch statewide campaign against public property defacement | Ludhiana News

Ludhiana: A group of residents from Ludhiana has launched a campaign against the defacement of public property across Punjab, calling for stricter enforcement of existing laws and greater accountability for violators.The campaign, which also includes an online outreach effort, has been taken up with chief minister Bhagwant Mann and senior officials of the local bodies department. The residents have urged authorities to ensure a complete ban on unauthorised posters, banners, flex boards, stickers and wall writings on public property.According to the group, walls, electricity poles, road dividers, public buildings, flyovers, heritage structures and traffic signboards across cities, towns and villages are routinely covered with publicity material put up by political parties, religious organisations, coaching centres, commercial establishments, event organisers and individuals seeking visibility.Activist Narinder Singh Masson said the unchecked display of posters and banners harms the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces, creates visual pollution, adds to maintenance costs and can even pose safety risks by distracting road users. He demanded strict prohibition of all unauthorised publicity material on public assets.Another resident, BB Goyal, called for immediate removal of illegal displays and the imposition of heavy penalties on those responsible. He also suggested recovery of cleaning costs from violators and the creation of a citizen-reporting mechanism through a mobile app, WhatsApp helpline or online portal.Responding to the concerns, MC assistant commissioner Jasdev Sekhon said defacement of public property is already prohibited and the civic body regularly removes illegal posters and banners from roads and govt structures. He added that individuals should exercise responsibility and refrain from violating the rules.