Karachi authorities have announced a fresh crackdown on illegal billboards and hoardings after a citywide survey identified 224 violations across four districts.
The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, who warned that advertising agencies and officials involved in illegal installations could face criminal charges.
The survey identified 81 illegal billboards in District Central, 80 in East, 47 in South and 16 in West. An earlier survey this year had identified only 55 billboards for removal.
The commissioner directed the immediate removal of illegal billboards in the South and East districts. However, structures with minor deficiencies may remain if the required corrections are made.
He also warned that FIRs would be registered under the Sindh Public Property (Removal of Encroachment) Act against the CEOs of advertising agencies responsible for violations and officials who issued permits against the rules.
All Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs), the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), cantonment boards and other relevant authorities have been directed to ensure compliance with billboard installation regulations.
The meeting clarified that billboards are prohibited on public property, including roads, sidewalks, medians, green belts, roundabouts, pedestrian walkways and drains. The restrictions also apply to electronic billboards and ground-level installations, while pedestrian bridges are exempt.
Authorities have also adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward dangerous and illegal structures on both public and private property.
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