In a devastating incident during an unexpected dust storm in Mumbai, a massive billboard collapsed at a busy petrol station, resulting in fourteen fatalities and over sixty injuries.
The civic turmoil caused widespread disruption throughout the city, leading to power outages, halted public transport, and intense reactionary measures from local authorities.
The Disaster Unfolds
Amid the chaos of a severe dust storm striking Mumbai, a large billboard located opposite a fuel station succumbed to the storm’s force, collapsing onto several vehicles in the process.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of destruction and urgent rescue efforts. Swapnil Khupte, who witnessed the event, shared with ANI, “All the cars, bikes and people that were there got stuck. We helped people get out and somehow manage to escape.”
Response and Rescue Operations
Following the collapse, emergency services, including teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), rushed to the scene to search for anyone trapped under the debris. The primary focus was on rescuing trapped individuals and providing immediate medical attention to the injured.
Government Reaction
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed the tragedy promptly, emphasizing the state’s commitment to helping those affected. “Rescuing people is the priority, and the government will take care of the treatment of those who were injured,” Shinde stated.
He also announced financial compensation for the families of the deceased and called for an inspection of similar structures across Mumbai to prevent future incidents.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed on social media that an investigation into the incident has been initiated to determine the causes and accountability for the collapse.
Wider Impact on Mumbai
The dust storm had a far-reaching impact on Mumbai’s infrastructure, leading to temporary suspension of local train services, diversions of flights, and a significant shutdown in the metro network.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Mumbai had issued warnings for a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning and rain, which contributed to the extreme weather conditions impacting the city.
Conclusion
As Mumbai recovers from this tragic event, the focus remains on supporting the injured and bereaved, analyzing the structural stability of public advertising, and improving response strategies to natural disasters.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of urban structures to natural events and the ongoing need for stringent safety measures.
