SEVERAL of Jabalpur’s iconic squares are in a state of neglect despite the Jabalpur Municipal Corporation’s (JMC) continued claims of city beautification. Damaged structures, overgrown weed, litter and unauthorised political posters have become common at many of the city's prominent landmarks. Malviya Chowk, Bada Phuhara, Kamania and Deendayal Chowk revealed broken railings, damaged rotary structures, untrimmed grass and weeds and banners covering large portions of these public places. Many of these squares are considered important landmarks and reflect the city's heritage, but their present condition tells a different story. Citizens said the poor maintenance does not match the image of a city that has earned recognition for cleanliness. They questioned why these important locations continue to remain neglected despite regular inspections and repeated claims of improvement. Residents have also expressed concern over the large number of political hoardings, posters and banners displayed at major squares, road dividers, rotaries and heritage structures. They alleged that while the Municipal Corporation removes smaller unauthorised posters, larger political displays often remain in place for long periods. Citizens said, this selective action weakens the purpose of the civic body's beautification campaign.

 

They underlined that public money has been spent on developing rotaries, road dividers and public spaces, but unauthorised banners and posters continue to spoil their appearance and affect the city’s visual identity. Municipal Corporation officials, however, said regular drives are being carried out against unauthorised hoardings, posters and banners under the Madhya Pradesh Outdoor Advertisement Media Rules, 2017. They said no advertisement, commercial or otherwise, is allowed without prior permission. Violators are liable to pay a penalty of Rs 10 per square foot per day and may also face legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Citizens said the campaign will be effective only if the rules are enforced equally. They said there should be no distinction based on who has put up the poster or banner. They have demanded immediate removal of unauthorised displays, repair of damaged structures, proper landscaping and regular maintenance of all major squares so that Jabalpur's heritage landmarks regain their dignity and reflect the city's true image. City’s iconic intersections fall... (Top) Damaged railings and overgrown weed at a city square raise questions over the maintenance of Jabalpur’s major squares. (Below)Political posters and banners displayed on road divider poles continue to dominate a busy city stretch despite the Municipal Corporation’s campaign against unauthorised outdoor advertisements.