Shiv Sena, MNS say no to political arches on roads in Kalyan-Dombivli

Ganesh idol stuck due to political arches in Kalyan (File Photo)

The initiative was first announced by Dombivli MNS city president Harshad Patil, who said the party would not erect arches or banners in the middle of roads.

Patil said road arches not only cause traffic congestion but also sometimes create problems while transporting large Ganesh idols during installation and immersion processions. At times, idols have to be manoeuvred around such structures, which, he said, can lead to disrespect of the deity. KALYAN: Political arches erected in the middle of roads and at busy junctions during festivals will be kept off the streets in Kalyan-Dombivli this year, with the Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) deciding against putting up such structures during Dahi Handi and Ganeshotsav. He had also urged the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) not to grant permissions for such structures.

Sources said there is no blanket restriction on roadside banners, allowing political leaders to put up greeting posters and banners during Ganeshotsav, provided they do not obstruct roads. The issue gained further momentum after Kalyan Lok Sabha MP Dr Shrikant Shinde instructed Shiv Sena office-bearers and workers not to erect political arches in the middle of roads during the festive season. The decision is expected to provide relief to motorists and pedestrians, particularly on narrow roads and stretches where civic and infrastructure works are underway. During festivals, political parties traditionally put up arches, banners and hoardings to extend greetings. However, these often occupy road space, create bottlenecks and add to the visual clutter. In some cases, structures remain even after the festival.

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