No more illegal boards or banners; FIRs to be filed against violators

KOCHI: The High Court has said that visual pollution is a hindrance to tourism development. The High Court has declared that boards and banners in public places placed without permission is unlawful. Strict legal action and fines should be taken against this. Otherwise, the concerned officials will be held responsible, Justice Devan Ramachandran ordered. This is essential to create a new Kerala and maintain the state as 'God's own country'.

The main causes of visual pollution are political parties. Boards and flagpoles are being placed in every nook and corner without considering the beauty and safety of the country. An FIR should be registered against the violators. The order is on petitions against illegal boards and flagpoles in public places. The matter will be considered again on April 12.

The Local Government Department should inform about the online system to complain against illegal boards to the Principal Secretary. The Road Safety Authority should also file a report. The government should also inform about the steps taken. Adv. Jacob Mathew was appointed as amicus curiae to submit a progress report. The court commended the government for taking steps to implement the interim order.

Fine for every violation

• Local bodies, including illegal boards, should be removed
• Action should be taken against advertising agencies that put up illegal boards
• The DGP should ensure that the circular is implemented
• Action should be taken against officials who do not comply
• The Joint Director of the Local Body Department should seek a report from the local body secretaries every month.
• The Election Commission should ensure that the instructions are not violated in the elections.
• The instructions in the order should also be included in the code of conduct.
• The Road Safety Authority should also ensure that the instructions are implemented.