The Jabalpur Municipal Corporation (JMC) claims to be marching ahead on the path of a clean, smart, and well-organised city, but the ground reality at several key locations tells a very different and deeply worrying story. Massive billboard structures across the city stand worn-out and damaged. Their flex sheets have been ripped apart by strong winds. Torn strips of plastic now hang loosely from iron frames, swaying dangerously with every breeze. The most alarming sight is at a busy area near Rajiv Gandhi Chowk. A large chunk of torn flex material is visibly entangled around overhead electric supply wires. This is not just an eyesore. It is a live safety hazard that could trigger a short circuit, an electrical fire, or even electrocution at any moment. Commuters and pedestrians pass under this danger every single day. Several hoarding frames appear structurally distorted and weakened.

 

During strong winds or the ensuing monsoon season, such structures risk collapsing entirely. A falling billboard or ad hoarding in a busy area could prove fatal for anyone passing below. What is most troubling is the complete inaction of JMC. These dangerous structures stand in plain public view on busy commercial roads. Yet, no inspection has been carried out. No removal notices have been issued. No corrective action has been taken. JMC is always quick in claiming credit for cleanliness rankings and smart city achievements. However, enforcing advertisement bye-laws, checking hoarding licence, condition and ensuring structural safety of billboard installations seem to be nobody’s priority. Citizens deserve better. Unless the Municipal Corporation acts swiftly and removes these illegal and unsafe structures on a war footing, the city may soon pay for this negligence with human lives.