A portion of a bustling road outside the renowned Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai caved in on Thursday morning, sending shockwaves through the city and igniting a firestorm of criticism on social media platforms. The incident, which occurred at the busy Kismat junction on Veer Savarkar Marg in Dadar West around 11:30 a.m., saw the front left tire of a car become trapped in a newly formed 3-foot by 5-foot crater.
Visuals shared online captured the scene as locals documented the event on their mobile phones. Traffic police officers, working alongside residents, managed to extract the vehicle from the crater, while other cars were temporarily diverted. The collapse has sparked outrage among Mumbai residents, with many directing their ire at the BMC, the city’s civic authority responsible for road maintenance.
The incident has taken on a political dimension as well, with members of the Shiv Sena (UBT) accusing the Eknath Shinde government of corruption. Social media users have been vocal in their criticism, highlighting the BMC’s ₹ 59,954.75 crore annual budget and demanding accountability for the crumbling infrastructure.
The collapse is seen as a stark reminder of the deteriorating state of Mumbai’s roads and has reignited concerns about the city’s infrastructure. Many have taken to social media to express their frustration and anger, accusing the BMC of corruption and negligence. Some users have pointed out the recurring pattern of roadwork followed by similar incidents during the monsoon season, questioning the lack of accountability and transparency.
The incident has raised serious questions about the quality of road construction and maintenance in Mumbai. The BMC, India’s wealthiest civic body, is responsible for ensuring that roads are safe and motorable. The collapse near the Siddhivinayak Temple, a significant religious site and a popular tourist destination, has highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and greater accountability from the authorities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting infrastructure and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of citizens.