Illegal Hoardings Raise Safety Risks and Revenue Loss Concerns
Anakapalle is witnessing a rise in unauthorised hoardings, flex banners, and digital display boards, triggering concerns over road safety and alleged revenue loss to the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC). Questions have also been raised over possible irregularities in the permissions system.
Advertisement structures are widely visible at key junctions, including Nehru Chowk, and along major routes connecting Visakhapatnam, Chodavaram, Kotturu, and the Pudimadaka road junction. Similar displays are also found on Railway Station Road, Gavarapalem Main Road, and the stretch from NTR Circle via the stadium to the area hospital.
Officials estimate that advertisement revenue should cross ₹60 lakh annually, but current collections are reportedly below ₹25 lakh, pointing to a significant shortfall.
Allegations have surfaced that some municipal staff are facilitating unauthorised permissions for flex banners, glow sign boards, and digital displays. This has raised concerns over possible revenue leakage and weak monitoring of approvals.
A live digital advertising screen near Nehru Chowk has drawn strong objections from residents. They say round-the-clock advertisements distract motorists and increase accident risks at the busy junction.
While such installations are generally restricted to high-traffic locations, locals allege that permission was granted in this case. Despite repeated complaints to GVMC authorities, no action has been taken so far.
GVMC norms require prior approval for all hoardings, with temporary permissions for political and private events typically limited to one week. However, several installations are reported to remain in place far beyond the permitted period.
Residents have also raised safety concerns over large flex banners and cutouts during strong winds. Recently, near Nehru Chowk at the Gajuwaka bus stop, a large cutout and flex banners collapsed in gusty winds, damaging two parked vehicles.
Advertisement charges are fixed based on size, location, and duration, but a lack of transparent enforcement has led to allegations of collusion between advertisers and certain officials, resulting in revenue loss for the civic body.
Residents have called for a comprehensive audit of all hoardings, flex banners, glow signboards, and digital displays in Anakapalle. They believe it would help uncover irregularities and improve both safety standards and revenue collection.