Coimbatore Corporation urged not to allow advertisements in the name of sponsorships
A consumer advocate in Coimbatore is urging the local corporation to prohibit commercial advertisements disguised as sponsorships in its traffic intersection redevelopment project. The proposal argues that such signage creates visual clutter and distracts motorists, violating road safety guidelines.
Why it matters
This highlights the tension between urban beautification projects funded by private entities and the necessity of maintaining strict road safety standards.
The Coimbatore Corporation has been urged not to permit advertisements under the guise of sponsorships in its proposed ‘Junction Improvement Programme’, under which 30 critical traffic intersections have been identified for redevelopment and maintenance through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Coimbatore Consumer Cause secretary and member of District Road Safety Committee K. Kathirmathiyon opposed the proposal to allow sponsors to install advertisement boards at roundabouts, medians and traffic islands.
He said commercial advertisements at junctions would distract motorists and defeat the purpose of improving road safety and urban aesthetics.
Mr. Kathirmathiyon said the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines require traffic control devices and road furniture to remain free from visual clutter and prohibit advertisements that distract road users.
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