An environmental NGO, Awaaz Foundation, has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene in the proposed Maharashtra Maritime Board (Regulation of Display of Advertisements) Regulations 2026. The group has raised serious concerns about the environmental and ecological impact of allowing commercial advertisements along the state’s coastline.
The proposed policy, notified by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, permits various forms of advertising in coastal areas, including illuminated hoardings, LED displays, neon signage, laser shows, hot-air balloons, and advertisements on vessels and floating structures. The initiative is intended to generate revenue through a structured bidding process by monetising maritime assets.
However, the NGO argues that such measures could significantly increase light pollution along the coastline and negatively affect biodiversity, particularly migratory birds, mangroves, and marine ecosystems. It also warns that excessive lighting and digital displays may disrupt human sleep cycles and pose risks to public health and road safety.
Awaaz Foundation has called for the withdrawal of the notification and demanded wider public consultations before any implementation. The organisation has also requested stricter regulations governing brightness levels, animation, placement, and the size of advertisements to minimise environmental damage.
The NGO further highlighted the lack of scientific studies assessing the long-term environmental impact of coastal advertising in Maharashtra. It pointed to global cities such as New York and Tokyo, where illuminated advertising is restricted to designated commercial zones to reduce visual and environmental disruption.
The proposed regulations have already sparked opposition from local resident groups and environmental advocates, who are concerned about the impact on the visual character of the coastline and urban ecological balance.
