BMC tightens safety norms after two killed in Bhubaneswar hoarding collapse incident

Two people were killed after a hoarding collapsed in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, triggering swift action from the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), which has announced stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents.

Following the tragedy, civic authorities convened a high-level review meeting to strengthen safety protocols and enhance regulatory oversight of hoardings installed across the city.

The meeting was held at the direction of BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana. It was attended by Additional Commissioner Ratnakar Sahu, Revenue Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mohanty, and representatives of authorised advertising agencies.

Third-Party Insurance to Be Mandatory

During the meeting, the BMC decided to make third-party insurance mandatory for all hoardings within its jurisdiction. The civic body also resolved to streamline and strictly regulate the installation and maintenance of hoardings to ensure public safety.

Authorities discussed issuing formal notices to authorised advertising agencies, directing them to submit structural stability certificates for each hoarding. Agencies have been asked to furnish detailed documentation outlining measures for proper management, routine maintenance, and compliance with safety standards.

Agencies Directed to Review All Structures

The BMC has instructed all agencies to conduct an immediate inspection of their hoardings and submit status reports on their structural condition. Agencies have also been directed to prominently display their names on each hoarding to ensure identification and accountability.

From a safety perspective, agencies have been told to promptly remove torn flex materials or any components found flapping in the wind. They have also been instructed to dismantle hoardings wherever necessary, particularly in locations where structural safety is in question.

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The civic body stated that these measures are aimed at ensuring stricter monitoring and safeguarding public safety in the wake of the fatal incident.