COIMBATORE: In a major setback for the Salem division of Southern Railways, the Madras High Court has dismissed its petition against the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) on the installation of flex hoardings on railway land. The court's ruling paves the way for the civic body to take action against unauthorised advertisements, even if erected on railway property.
The legal battle began when Southern Railways approached the court seeking exemption from obtaining prior approval from the CCMC for placing flex hoardings on railway land, along the Brooke Bond Road stretch in the city. The railways had argued that as a central entity, it did not require permission from the local municipal body for such activities on its own land. An interim stay order had earlier restrained the CCMC from removing these hoardings.
However, following the court's dismissal of the railway's petition, the CCMC swiftly swung into action and in a coordinated operation, the town planning department officials of the CCMC removed a total of 53 flex hoardings erected along the disputed stretch. According to CCMC officials, the hoardings were taken down in line with municipal norms, and to ensure the safety of the public and the motorists.
Speaking to TNIE, CCMC Town Planning Officer (TPO) S Kumar said, "The high court has dismissed the railway department's petition, including the stay order which it had issued earlier. In view of this, we have now removed as many as 53 illegal flex hoardings that were distracting the motorists. When a private building owner installs a flex hoarding on their land or building, they must get approval from the CCMC. The same rule applies to the railways as well. Even if they install hoardings on their lands, they must get our permission."
The verdict is likely to have wider implications for other government departments operating within the city limits, reinforcing the powers of local bodies to regulate public display content. Urban planning experts have also welcomed the decision, saying it strengthens decentralisation and accountability in city management.
Meanwhile, officials from Southern Railways have not yet commented on the court's decision or the removal of the hoardings. Sources in the CCMC and the Southern Railways said the latter is likely to file an appeal against the dismissal of the petition soon.