courtesy: CNBCTV 18Mumbai was hit by a dust storm accompanied by rains at several places on Monday, May 13. The storm has caused havoc near Chheda Nagar Gymkhana Recreation Centre in Chheda Nagar’s Sector 3 area, where a massive hoarding on 120 feet by 120 feet collapsed, trapping at least 100 people under.
Reacting to the incident, BMC has issued a statement asserting that the hoarding was illegal and the authorities will be filing an FIR against the agency for the same.
Mumbai Police have also issued a statement citing, “today, on 13/05/2024, around 16:30, a sudden storm and heavy rain led to a devastating incident. A metal girder from a billboard, sized 70/50 meters, collapsed at Railway Petrol Pump, Samta Colony, Ghatkopar (E), injuring 37 people.” It added that around 50-60 individuals are still believed to be trapped.
Reportedly, the ad agency will be charged a fine of 6.13 cr and has 10 days to take down the remaining hoardings
Mumbai never witnessed such high power storms. #MumbaiRains pic.twitter.com/bqYMdsuBgW
— Godman Chikna (@Madan_Chikna) May 13, 2024
The incident was first reported by the Fire Brigade of Mumbai at around 4.30 pm. As of now, the rescue operations are underway by authorities such as fire fighters, local police, and ambulance services. The incident has been going viral on the internet.
The site, which is situated next to a petrol pump, witnessed the havoc after the hoarding was struck by strong winds and dust during the storm.
As per Smt Bharti, Medical Superintendent at Rajawadi Hospital, a total of 35 injured individuals had been brought in as of 5:55pm, with all reported to be in stable condition so far.
