An illegal banner erected by local functionaries and cadre of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on Arakkonam Main Road near the old bus terminus in Arakkonam town collapsed after heavy rain lashed the area, posing a risk to motorists.
The police said the huge banner was installed by local party functionaries a few days ago in view of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s 52nd birthday on June 22 (Monday). The video of a collapsed banner on the road went viral on social media platforms, inviting public outcry.
“Despite being narrow, the stretch near the old bus terminus is used by locals and tourists to reach various places in the town and nearby areas. The collapsed TVK banner has not only reduced the total road space for users, but also put them at risk,” B. Kaviarasu, a motorist, said.
Officials of Arakkonam municipality said TVK did not get any formal permission from the civic body and the police to install the banners on the arterial stretch.
Municipal officials said local TVK functionaries removed the banners from the stretch on Thursday. After public outcry, new banners were installed at less crowded spots such as taluk office road and old panchayat office road.
The police said cases were registered against local TVK cadre for erecting unauthorised banners. A probe is under way.
Published - June 18, 2026 10:13 pm IST