Shocking footage has emerged showing the terrifying collapse of a massive billboard in Mumbai, India, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 14 people. The 220-foot-by-160-foot billboard fell during a sudden storm, causing chaos and destruction in the Ghatkopar area.

The Collapse

The catastrophic incident occurred earlier this week when a heavy rainstorm hit Mumbai. The enormous billboard collapsed over a petrol station, also impacting several nearby houses. Surveillance camera footage captured the moment the metal structure tore through cars and trapped people beneath it as heavy winds and rain battered the area.

The billboard collapse has tragically killed 14 people. (NDTV)

Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams were quick to respond, with efforts commencing immediately after the disaster on Monday evening (13 May). By Tuesday (15 May), teams were diligently working through the wreckage to find survivors. The rescue operation involved fire services, police, disaster response officials, and other emergency personnel.

National Disaster Relief Force assistant commandant Nikhil Mudholkar informed ANI news agency, “A total of 88 people were rescued, of whom 14 were declared dead by doctors and 31 were discharged.”

Mudholkar highlighted the challenges faced by the rescue teams, noting, “The problem is that we are unable to use our gasoline-based cutting equipment because there is a petrol pump here.”

Official Response and Investigation

The tragedy prompted immediate action from Maharashtra state officials. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the disaster site and announced measures to remove illegal and dangerous billboards across the city. “It is a very unfortunate incident. The government will probe it, and the people responsible will face action,” he stated.

Shinde also ordered a structural audit of all hoardings in the city to prevent future incidents. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a ‘high-level’ inquiry into the collapse, and Mumbai police have registered a case against the owners of Ego Media, the company responsible for the billboard.

Financial Assistance and Community Impact

The Chief Minister announced financial aid for the victims’ families, stating that each family would receive Rs500,000 ($5,990). This gesture aims to provide some relief to those affected by the tragedy.

Officials are granting $5,990 to the family of each person who was killed. (NDTV)

Broader Implications

The incident has also had wider repercussions, including temporary flight disruptions at Mumbai airport, where 15 flights had to be diverted. Mumbai, like many other major Indian cities, frequently faces severe flooding and rain-related issues during the monsoon season, which spans from June to September each year.

Public Reaction

The footage of the collapse has sparked discussions about safety regulations for billboards and other large structures. Social media users have voiced concerns about the need for stricter safety standards. One user commented, “That’s why it is very important to always include wind loads in designing any structure that is above a one-storey,” while another added, “This is devastating. It’s a harsh reminder that safety regulations for billboards need to be stricter to prevent such tragedies.”

The tragic collapse of the billboard in Mumbai is a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by large structures during severe weather conditions. The incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety standards and proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on providing support to the affected families and ensuring that such a catastrophe does not happen again.