Wall posters continue to dot public spaces in Coimbatore

Walls and flyover pillars across Coimbatore remain plastered with posters promoting political events, advertisements, and other programmes, despite attempts to keep public spaces clean.

“Just one poster can ruin the paint, and even after cleaning, traces remain for years,” said Anand Krishnakumar, a resident. “It gives the city a neglected appearance.”

Consumer activist K. Kathirmathiyon said the Corporation’s practice of tearing down posters is not enough. “Under the Tamil Nadu Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1959, it is illegal to affix advertisements on public walls, flyover pillars, bridges, or other visible structures without the owner’s consent. Authorities can impose fines on the person pasting the poster, the advertiser, and even the printing press. Offences are cognisable, and compensation can be claimed for cleaning or repainting damaged surfaces,” he said.

“Political parties must be regulated during election time to prevent misuse of public property, and it is the responsibility of the ruling party to ensure that these spaces are maintained and not used for personal or political gain. An all-party meeting should be conducted to frame clear rules, set penalties, and assign accountability to prevent repeated violations,” he added.

Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran said the city will launch a fresh poster removal drive, and the possibility of imposing fines on those who affix posters on public properties will be explored to ensure accountability.