Maharashtra Minister Denies Rumors of 20 Floating Billboards in Mumbai Waters

Mumbai, October 30 (Daily Kiran) : Maharashtra’s Fisheries and Port Development Minister Nitesh Rane has addressed concerns regarding a tender from the Maharashtra Maritime Board for floating billboards. In a recent post on social media platform X, he asserted that he opposes any initiatives that could harm Mumbai’s marine environment or its picturesque coastline.

Rane noted that there has been considerable misunderstanding surrounding the tender for four proposed billboards. He clarified that two of these billboards already exist near the sea link, meaning only two new installations are being considered. He firmly rejected claims that 20 billboards would be placed in the ocean, labeling such information as entirely false and misleading.

As the Minister of Ports and Chairman of the Maharashtra Maritime Board, Rane emphasized his commitment to preserving Mumbai’s coastal beauty. “As a proud Mumbaikar, I will never support any initiative that jeopardizes our marine environment or obstructs our beautiful coastal views,” he stated. He also invited anyone seeking clarification to engage in discussions for transparency.

Additionally, Rane urged against politicizing the floating billboard tender issue. He highlighted that the government led by Devendra Fadnavis is committed to both environmental responsibility and progressive development, asserting that both can coexist. He expressed hope that this clarification would help people understand the facts in the right context.

Recent reports suggested that the Maharashtra Maritime Board had issued tenders for floating billboards and advertising licenses at approximately 15 to 20 locations, including Juhu Beach, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and Worli Jetty. Rane has categorically denied these claims.