NEW DELHI: Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has started a drive to remove illegal hoardings, kiosks and posters. The civic body will prosecute all offenders. FIRs will be registered against them and a fine will also be imposed on them.

Standing committee chairman Ram Kishan Singhal said: "Officials from all the 12 zones will visit every crossing, roundabout, road side and other public places to remove illegal hoardings. I want that every area under MCD's jurisdiction be made free from unauthorized hoardings, kiosks, etc so that the city looks aesthetically beautiful before the Commonwealth Games 2010. After the drive is over, strict vigilance will be maintained so that illegal hoardings do not come up again.''

MCD had targeted to generate Rs 300 crore from advertisement tax collections during 2009-10, but it could only collect Rs 20.85 crore till November this financial year. "About Rs 23 crore is still to be paid by 24 firms. Also, a lot of cheques bounced. We are looking into the matter and are trying to recover the outstanding amount.''

The civic agency is also planning to carry out a survey to find out the exact number of illegal hoardings in the city. According to estimates, MCD loses Rs 20 crore due to illegal hoardings.