Bengaluru Minister Targets Illegal Hoardings, Calls Them 'Paper Tree Plantation'

Minister's Sharp Remark on Illegal Hoardings

Karnataka's Revenue Minister, Krishna Byre Gowda, has taken a strong stance against the proliferation of illegal hoardings in Bengaluru. He described the practice as a 'paper tree plantation', a term that has quickly gained traction on social media.

The minister made the comment during a review meeting on Tuesday, where he expressed frustration over the unchecked growth of unauthorized advertisements across the city. He pointed out that these structures not only spoil the city's look but also pose safety risks during storms.

Crackdown Order Issued

Gowda has directed the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to launch a comprehensive drive against all illegal hoardings. The order covers both roadside billboards and those on private buildings without proper permits.

Officials have been told to prepare a detailed list of all such structures within a week. The minister warned that any laxity in enforcement would lead to disciplinary action against concerned officers.

The Scale of the Problem

Bengaluru has struggled for years with the visual clutter caused by thousands of hoardings. Many of these are erected without clearance from the BBMP's advertisement cell.

Sources indicate that the city loses crores of rupees annually due to these unauthorized installations. The crackdown is expected to also recover pending advertisement taxes from violators.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

Residents of Bengaluru have welcomed the minister's tough talk. Many took to social media to share pictures of illegal hoardings in their localities, tagging the BBMP and the minister.

Gowda has asked citizens to report such structures directly to his office. He said the government is committed to making the city's skyline cleaner and safer.

The BBMP commissioner has been directed to submit a compliance report within 15 days. The drive is expected to begin in the central business district and then expand to other wards.

Officials are also considering a new policy to regulate digital hoardings that have become increasingly common in tech corridors.