The Mumbai hoarding collapse in the Ghatkopar area has resulted in a devastating death toll of 14 individuals, with 70 others sustaining injuries. This tragic incident, attributed to intense dust storms and heavy rainfall, witnessed a large hoarding collapse onto a petrol pump in Chheda Nagar, prompting an outpouring of shock and outrage. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has firmly stated that strict action will be taken against the company responsible for the illegal construction of this hoarding.
An extensive rescue operation spanning over 20 hours, undertaken by the administration, led to the successful rescue of 89 individuals from beneath the collapsed structure. However, the grim reality emerged as 14 of the rescued individuals succumbed to their injuries, while 31 others remain critically wounded and are receiving urgent medical care at hospitals.
The tragedy has deeply resonated across various sectors of society, with influential individuals and celebrities expressing their shock and dismay. Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, actor Vijay Verma, Soni Razdan, and Mini Mathur are among those who have publicly voiced their grief and anger regarding this incident. Many have raised questions about the accountability of authorities responsible for preventing such illegal structures and ensuring the safety of citizens.
In response to the incident, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has swiftly initiated action to remove all illegal hoardings across the city. The civic body has also issued a directive to the company responsible for the collapsed Ghatkopar hoarding to remove all their other billboards installed in Mumbai. BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani emphasized that a case has been registered and that a thorough investigation will be conducted, including examining the alleged cutting of trees to enhance the visibility of the illegal hoarding.
