GURUGRAM, (Economy India): Private online car trading company Cars24 has apologised to the authorities after its publicity stunt involving a boat on waterlogged roads in Gurugram triggered controversy.
The incident took place amid severe waterlogging following heavy rainfall in the city. Cars24 had lowered a blue boat onto inundated roads as part of a branding exercise, drawing attention on social media.
The company had initially claimed that the Gurugram Traffic Police confiscated the boat and imposed a Rs 50,000 challan for allegedly violating traffic regulations. However, the Gurugram Traffic Police later debunked the claim, making it clear that no such challan had been issued to the company.
Following the clarification from the police, Cars24 issued a statement apologising to the concerned authorities for the act. The company acknowledged the issue surrounding the publicity activity and expressed regret over the incident.
The controversy comes as several parts of Gurugram have faced significant waterlogging after heavy rainfall, disrupting traffic and daily life. Roads in several areas were inundated, leading to traffic congestion and difficulties for commuters.
The boat stunt attracted widespread attention because of the unusual sight of a boat moving through flooded city roads. While the company intended the activity as a branding exercise, the episode quickly became a matter of public and official concern.
The incident also highlights the sensitivity surrounding promotional activities during extreme weather events, particularly when residents are dealing with flooding, traffic disruption and other difficulties.
(Economy India)
