Mumbai NGOs write to CM Shinde seeking removal of excessively bright digital billboards

Concerned about the "very distracting" bright digital billboards, a group of NGOs has written to Chief Minister (CM) Eknath Shinde, claiming that the billboards are causing "killer" light pollution in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). In their letter dated November 1, the collective - including NatConnect Foundation, Watchdog Foundation, and Shri Ekvira Aai Pratishtan - warned the state government that the billboards could cause accidents.

In the complaint sent over email to the CM, it has been pointed out that the bright lights, with their constantly changing visuals, are not only annoying but also distracting. They can potentially divert attention and cause accidents on busy roads," said B N Kumar, director of the NatConnect Foundation.

Bright hoardings placed along the BKC-Chunabhatti connector

"The billboards' lights are excessively bright, and their flashing images are unsettling and distracting. Drivers may become blinded by sudden changes in light and meet with accidents, threatening life and limb. Light pollution is affecting the MMR even before risks associated with air pollution have been reduced," Kumar said. "The billboards are also causing light pollution and disrupting the natural patterns of wildlife, impacting birds in particular," Kumar added.

Digital hoardings along the Sion-Panvel highway, the Western Express Highway, and the BKC-Chunabhatti connector, according to Godfrey Pimenta of the Watchdog Foundation, can be deadly as they distract drivers. "The light pollution also contributes to an increase in carbon dioxide and, importantly, disrupts the sleep of people residing along the highway," Pimenta said.

Hits birds' movements

Meanwhile, Kumar noted, "The theme of last year's World Migratory Birds Day was Light Pollution, and the year-long event focused on the impact of bright lights on the movements of birds as they can lose their way and even die." According to Kumar, migratory birds spread the news of a healthy environment wherever they go, making them unofficial ambassadors of an excellent environment.

Nandakumar Pawar of Shri Ekvira Aai Pratishthan said, "Advertisers may have achieved creative success but practically speaking, the billboards' light is not such a bright idea. This is why we are calling for an end to the bright billboards in Mumbai before they reach the expressway and the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg."

Sumaira Abdulali, convenor of Awaaz Foundation, told mid-day, "Light pollution is almost similar to noise pollution but unlike other pollutions, there is no law or guidelines to restrict it. It can distract while driving, disturb sleep, and certain colours and types of lights can be harmful to the eyes. Instead of encouraging hoardings and billboards in the name of endorsements and beautification, the government should prepare norms to cut light pollution. I agree with Kumar that the government must intervene." Deputy Municipal Commissioner (special projects) Sanjog Kabre could not be reached for comments regarding the billboards in the city.