In a massive crackdown conducted today, April 15, 2025, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) removed 665 illegal posters, banners, and hoardings from across the city in a single day. The action, carried out under the instructions of Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, targeted dangerous and unauthorized displays mounted on road dividers, footpaths, electric poles, and even trees — which officials say not only defaced the city but also posed a safety risk to pedestrians and motorists.
The anti-encroachment drive was conducted on as part of a city-wide campaign to rid Thane of visual clutter and potential hazards. Officials removed illegal publicity materials that had been irresponsibly placed across various parts of the city, often obstructing public movement or creating distractions on busy roads.
The TMC’s Encroachment Department, along with staff from all regional ward committees, led the effort. Commissioner Rao emphasized that such hoardings, when left unchecked, not only ruin the aesthetic appeal of the city but can also collapse during strong winds, potentially causing accidents. “This operation will continue regularly to maintain public safety and civic discipline,” Rao stated.
The following is a breakdown of the action taken across ward committees:
Naupada Ward – 76 removed
Kopri Ward – 54
Wagle Estate Ward – 55
Lokmanya-Savarkar Nagar Ward – 66
Vartak Nagar Ward – 65
Majiwada-Manpada Ward – 67
Uthalsar Ward – 53
Kalwa Ward – 72
Mumbra Ward – 75
Diva Ward – 82
Deputy Municipal Commissioner of Encroachment, Shankar Patole, along with assistant commissioners and staff from each ward office, were present during the operation.