Delhi's Duplicate Image Replacement Issue: Voices from Affected Community Members

Delhi's streets are filled with duplicate images and billboards, causing confusion and affecting local businesses. The issue has become a major concern for community members, who are calling for action to be taken.

The duplicate image replacement issue matters now because it is not only affecting the aesthetic appeal of Delhi's streets but also impacting the livelihoods of local business owners. With the Delhi Metro Phase 4 expansion underway, the city is expected to attract more tourists and investors, making it essential to address this issue. The AAP government, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has been under pressure from the central government to improve the city's infrastructure and services.

In Karol Bagh, a major commercial hub, duplicate images of popular brands and products can be seen on almost every street corner. The Karol Bagh Market Association has been working with the local authorities to remove these duplicate images, but the issue persists. Meanwhile, in Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and most historic areas of Delhi, the duplicate image replacement issue is affecting the local heritage and cultural landscape. The Chandni Chowk Redevelopment Project, launched in 2020, aims to restore the area's historic charm, but the duplicate images are hindering the efforts.

Statistics and Evidence

According to a survey conducted by the Delhi-based NGO, Centre for Science and Environment, over 70% of the billboards and images in Delhi are duplicates. The survey also found that the duplicate image replacement issue is costing the city's businesses an estimated Rs 10 crore per year. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee has also reported a significant increase in the number of complaints related to duplicate images and billboards in the past year, with over 500 complaints received in 2025 alone.

The Delhi government has announced plans to launch a crackdown on duplicate images and billboards, with a focus on removing those that are illegal or unauthorized. The move is expected to improve the city's air quality and reduce the risk of accidents caused by these images. Residents and business owners are advised to report any instances of duplicate images or billboards to the local authorities, who will take action to remove them. As the city continues to grow and develop, it is essential that the duplicate image replacement issue is addressed to ensure that Delhi remains a vibrant and attractive destination for tourists and investors.