Northeast monsoon: Puducherry Collector issues order prohibiting display of all types of banners, cutouts, and hoardings

District Collector A. Kulothungan has issued an order, under provisions of the Disaster Management Act, prohibiting the display of all types of publicity materials and removal of vulnerable structures from public places in Puducherry.

Mr. Kulothungan, who is also the Chairperson of the Puducherry District Disaster Management Authority, said the prohibition order will come into effect from Tuesday (September, 29, 2026) and remain in force until the withdrawal of the Northeast monsoon or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

What the order says

All existing banners, cutouts, hoardings, and flex boards, irrespective of the purpose of their display, must be immediately removed and safely secured by the individuals/organisations responsible for their erection. The installation of new publicity display materials on any public or private property, roadsides, and road dividers is prohibited with immediate effect, the order said.

The Commissioners of Municipalities, Commune Panchayats, concerned authorities at the Public Works Department and all Station House Officers (SHOs) are directed to constitute special teams to monitor the compliance with the order. Any person or organisation contravening the order will be prosecuted under the relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the order said.

The Northeast monsoon is approaching and the prevailing seasonal conditions warrant advance preparedness and preventive measures to minimise the risks to life, property, and public infrastructure. The possibility of a strong El Niño during the Northern Hemisphere autumn and winter of 2026-27 warrants enhanced preparedness and precautionary measures in anticipation of potential weather variability, the order said.