Sat Oct 25 07:58:52 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and rewrite of the provided text as a news article:
Summary:
Due to a severe weather warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating the formation of low-pressure areas and the threat of heavy rainfall, high-speed winds, and potential flooding, the Puducherry government has invoked the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to ban all banners, cutouts, hoardings, and flex boards in Puducherry district for 15 days (until November 8th or when the warning is withdrawn). The ban is due to the risk of these materials collapsing and causing injuries, accidents, and damage to property during the predicted storms. Special teams have been formed to enforce the ban, and violators will face penalties and be charged for removal costs.
News Article:
Puducherry Bans Banners, Hoardings Amid Cyclone Threat
PUDUCHERRY, October 25, 2025 – The Puducherry government has issued a ban on all banners, cutouts, hoardings, and flex boards in Puducherry district for the next 15 days, effective immediately. The drastic measure, invoked under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, comes in response to a severe weather warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting the formation of low-pressure areas over the Bay of Bengal, bringing the threat of heavy to very heavy rainfall, high-speed gales (around 55 KMPH), and potential flooding to the region.
District Collector A. Kulothungan, also Chairman of the Puducherry Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), stated that the forecast constitutes a “threatening disaster situation.” The order emphasizes the danger posed by these structures, citing their susceptibility to collapse during strong winds, which could lead to fatal accidents, injuries to pedestrians and commuters, traffic obstructions, and damage to public property, including power networks.
“All types of publicity materials, irrespective of their size, must be removed,” the order stated. The ban is in effect until November 8th or until the IMD formally withdraws the severe weather warning and the PDMA issues subsequent directions.
Special teams comprised of officials from Municipalities, Commune Panchayats, Public Works Department, and Police Stations have been established to monitor and enforce compliance. Those found in violation will face significant penalties under the Disaster Management Act and will be responsible for the cost of removing the offending materials. Authorities began removing banners and cutouts on Saturday.
Collector Kulothungan appealed to political parties, organizations, and the public to cooperate with the order to mitigate the risk of rain-related disasters.
First Piper 