Following a severe dust storm in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area on Monday, a massive hoarding collapse resulted in the tragic loss of 14 lives and left over 74 individuals injured. The hoarding, spanning an almost 15,000 square feet area, was previously mentioned in the Limca Book of Records. However, officials now state it was erected without municipal consent.
Suddenly, on Monday evening, the city's atmosphere turned as dense clouds filled the sky, followed by the storm and rain. In the Samta Colony near Ghatkopar's railway petrol pump, the hoarding fell, crushing people beneath it and creating a scene of chaos and despair. Police and the Mumbai Fire Brigade swiftly arrived on the scene, launching a rescue operation with the help of local citizens.
At the time of the incident, over 100 people were present near the petrol pump. The fall of the hoarding led to panic and screams for help. The local police, fire brigade, and NDRF coordinated relief and rescue efforts, which continued throughout the night. By the early hours of 3 AM, a total of 86 people were extracted from beneath the hoarding and transported for medical treatment to various hospitals. During this time, 14 individuals lost their lives, and 74 wounded are receiving treatment, with many in critical condition. Furthermore, 31 people have been discharged after treatment.
Unauthorized hoarding, says BMC:
Following the incident, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a statement claiming the billboard was constructed without their permission. According to the BMC, there were four billboards at that location, all approved by the ACP (Administration) for the Police Commissioner (Railway Mumbai). No permission/NOC from the BMC was sought by the agency/railway before installing the hoardings.
The BMC has issued a notice to the advertising agency responsible for the hoarding. The statement from the BMC indicated they only permit hoardings up to a size of 40x40 square feet. However, the fallen illegal billboard measured 120x120 square feet, meaning it covered close to 15,000 square feet.
FIR filed against the company by the police:
Meanwhile, the police have lodged a complaint against the agency M/S Ego Media and its owner Bhavesh Bhinde, holding them responsible for the construction under sections 304, 338, 337 of the IPC at the Pant Nagar Police Station.
Condolences from the President:
The president, Draupadi Murmu, expressed her sorrow over the Ghatkopar tragedy in a social media post, conveying her deep condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured, as well as success in the ongoing relief efforts.
Chief Minister Shinde orders hoardings audit:
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, having inspected the devastation caused by the storm in Ghatkopar, issued several instructions to authorities. He stated that rescuing people is the priority, assuring that the government will cover the medical expenses of the injured. Families of the deceased will be provided with financial assistance of 5 lakh rupees. He also directed officials to audit all hoardings of this nature across Mumbai.
