Navi Mumbai Activists Flag Illegal Banners, Power Theft During Ganeshotsav, Claim Crores In Revenue Losses

The Sajag Nagrik Manch has alleged that large-scale illegal flex banners, decorative arches, and unauthorised electricity connections during Ganeshotsav are causing crores of rupees in revenue losses to the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd. (MSEDCL).

Crores in Revenue Losses for NMMC and MSEDCL

According to information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, only 10–20% of advertisers erecting banners and arches during the festival pay the required licence fees to NMMC. In the Belapur division, permission for temporary hoardings and arches was granted at just 11 locations, while the Nerul division earned only ₹49,121 from official flex banners. During the same period, 712 illegal banners were removed.

Demand for Strict Enforcement

Despite repeated requests, most departments withheld data, and there is no record of action taken against offenders. Activists claim many of the illegal banners are linked to political parties or their workers, and the civic body turns a blind eye.

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Impact on City Aesthetics

The group also alleged that several Ganesh mandals use unauthorised electricity instead of applying for temporary connections, leading to significant losses for MSEDCL. “It is inappropriate for such violations to take place during Ganeshotsav, a festival dedicated to the deity of wisdom,” said Anil Pawar, member of Sajag Nagrik Manch. “Ganesh mandals should avoid illegal advertising and power theft to preserve the sanctity of the festival.”

Activists Push for Transparent Governance

The Manch has demanded strict enforcement against illegal banners and unauthorised power connections, saying this would not only boost revenue but also protect the city’s aesthetics.