Flex Banner Crash in Bengaluru Sparks
Outrage: Time to Reinforce the Ban
Bengaluru witnessed another unfortunate incident that has reignited the debate around unauthorized political hoardings across the city. A massive flex banner erected in celebration of the birthdays of Vijayanagar MLA M Krishnappa and Govindarajanagar MLA Priya Krishna came crashing down in the Byatarayanapura area during a spell of rain and strong winds. The banner’s fall injured four individuals — two seriously — and caused damage to a car, halting traffic in the area temporarily.
What should have been a routine rainy afternoon quickly turned into chaos due to a preventable hazard. Despite a clear ban from the Karnataka High Court on such hoardings, these oversized, illegal flexes continue to appear all over the city. Citizens have expressed deep frustration over this growing menace, especially on social media, where many highlighted the risks these banners pose during inclement weather. One user pointed out a massive hoarding near Babai Tiffins on Sarjapur Road, adding to the list of ignored violations.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the civic authority responsible for enforcement, had earlier been rebuked by the Karnataka High Court for its failure to act. In August 2023, the court had directed BBMP to take down all unauthorized banners, impose a ₹50,000 fine per violation, and submit a compliance report. However, the latest incident clearly demonstrates that little has changed on the ground.
These political banners, often installed by overzealous supporters to mark a leader’s birthday or public presence, are more than an eyesore — they are a public safety hazard. With the city’s unpredictable weather, the danger of such structures collapsing is real and ever-present. The civic body’s inability or unwillingness to enforce the ban reflects poorly on its priorities, and people are demanding accountability.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has responded, affirming that no political party would be allowed to install such banners and that he has spoken to MLAs across party lines to ensure compliance. However, words now need to be backed by visible and strict action.
This incident should serve as a wake-up call. The government must uphold the High Court’s order and penalize all violations without exception. Public safety cannot be sacrificed for political vanity, and it’s high time the city reclaimed its skyline.
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