The recent hoarding collapse incident in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar area has left a trail of devastation, with the death toll rising to 14 and over 70 individuals injured. The catastrophic event unfolded amidst dust storms and unseasonal rains that battered Mumbai on May 13, leading to the collapse of a 100-foot-tall illegal billboard at a petrol pump in Ghatkopoar.
Tragedy Strikes Ghatkopar
The aftermath of the hoarding collapse saw a significant rescue operation by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The rescue efforts resulted in the retrieval of 89 individuals from the debris, while 75 people were reported injured and transported to hospitals for treatment. The rescue operation faced injuries and was transported to hospitals for treatment. The rescue operation faced challenges due to the massive size of the fallen billboard, which complicated the excavation process. Read more Latest news
Legal and Political Ramification
The tragedy shed light on the illegal nature of the hoarding, as the BMC revealed that the billboard’s owner lacked the necessary permit for its erection. This revelation led to the filing of an FIR against the owner, Bhavesh Bhide of Ego Media, under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code. The incident also sparked political controversy, with BJP leader Kirit Somaiya accusing Bhide of fleeing Mumbai with his family, demanding his declaration as a fugitive in the case.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
In response to the tragedy, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced an ex gratia of 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and pledged government hospital treatment for all the injured individuals. Additionally, the BMC initiated plans to remove other hoardings in the area to prevent similar accidents in the future. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for a structural audit of all hoardings in Mumbai to ensure public safety. Read more
Impact on Mumbai’s Infrastructure and Traffic
The hoarding collapse incident not only resulted in the loss of lives and injuries but also caused significant disruptions to Mumbai’s infrastructure. The rescue operation and subsequent traffic congestion in Ghatkopar highlighted the challenges faced by the city during such emergencies. The incident led to delays in suburban train services, affecting the daily commute of many residents.
Conclusion
The Mumbai hoarding collapse tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations and conducting regular audits of structures to prevent such disasters. The incident has not only claimed lives but has also raised questions about the accountability of those responsible for ensuring public safety. As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath of this calamity, it underscores the need for stringent enforcement of regulations to safeguard the lives of its residents.