Navi Mumbai: During this year's Ganeshotsav, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has faced a significant loss of revenue due to unauthorized advertisements displayed by prominent builders and companies. These businesses have been using the festival as a platform for free publicity, contributing to the disfigurement of the city while bypassing proper advertisement fees.

Key city locations, such as CBD Belapur, Kokan Bhawan Chowk, Nerul, Vashi, Ghansoli, and Airoli, have seen an influx of unauthorized advertisement boards, often placed by Ganeshotsav mandals. These boards typically feature greetings from political figures or promotional messages from companies, disguised as festival decorations. Builders and companies donating to these mandals are reportedly securing prime advertisement spots without contributing to NMMC's revenue.

Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde has issued strict directives to ensure that proper permissions are obtained for all advertisements. Legal action will be taken against violators to safeguard municipal revenue and maintain city aesthetics.

Despite these efforts, concerns remain regarding the enforcement of these regulations. The unauthorized advertisements have not only tarnished the city's appearance but also hindered efforts under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to keep Navi Mumbai clean and organized.