The death toll resulting from the collapse of a large hoarding in Maharashtra’s Ghatkopar area climbed to 14 as of Tuesday. The National Disaster Rescue Force reported that nearly 74 individuals were successfully rescued from the site, while 14 were tragically pronounced dead. The total count of affected individuals reaches 88.
Heavy rain and strong winds on Monday evening caused the catastrophe, which was quickly followed by the start of rescue operations. Speaking to ANI, NDRF Inspector Gaurav Chauhan said, “The incident was reported at around 5 pm. A massive billboard toppled upon a gas station. There have been about 65 rescues. Under the debris, the NDRF has found four dead bodies and saved three individuals. Hydraulic and gasoline-powered equipment cannot be used to prevent fire incidents. Cranes are being used by us to clear the rubble. Three victims have been saved by NDRF. Sixty-five had been saved before. The search and rescue efforts will last until the morning.
Mumbai police took swift action, registering a case under IPC 304, 338, 337, and 34 against owner Bhavesh Bhide and others at Pantnagar police station. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced an ex-gratia amount of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased and assured the government’s coverage of all expenses for the treatment of the injured.
President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar expressed their condolences and support. In a post on X, President Murmu conveyed, “The news of several casualties due to the collapse of a hoarding in Ghatkopar area of Mumbai is extremely sad. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and wish for the success of the relief and rescue operations.” Vice President Dhankar also offered prayers for the swift recovery of all those injured, stating, “Distressed to learn about the loss of lives in a billboard collapse incident in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this difficult time. I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured.”