At least 14 people have died, with many more injured, when a massive billboard collapsed during a sudden storm in Mumbai, India.
The billboard, measuring 70m by 50m according to police reports, fell onto nearby structures including houses and a petrol station on Monday.
Emergency services are actively engaged in a rescue operation as some individuals remain trapped beneath the wreckage.
The government of Maharashtra state, where Mumbai is situated, has initiated an inquiry into the incident.
Footage from local news channels depicts the billboard swaying in the wind before giving way, crashing onto buildings near a busy road in Ghatkopar, an eastern suburb of the city.
The collapse also resulted in several vehicles being crushed.
Emergency teams are seen in photos working diligently amidst the debris.
Dramatic video footage captures rescue workers extracting victims and using power tools to cut through the metal. An official mentioned, “We have rescued around 80 people safely,” highlighting ongoing efforts to save lives.
Akshay Vasant Patil, a 20-year-old eyewitness, shared his experience, “I realised the billboard was falling and tried to get out and run but got stuck between cars.”
He described the chaotic scene and how some managed to escape while others were trapped.
Among those affected was Bharat, 24, who was unfortunately crushed to death by the falling billboard while seeking shelter from the rain.
His mother, Naina Vinod Rathod, recounted the heartbreaking moment she learned of her son’s fate.
Authorities attribute the collapse to “speedy winds” and note that the billboard exceeded permitted size limits, lacking necessary permissions.
The responsible agency has been instructed to dismantle similar structures immediately.
Devendra Fadnavis, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, announced financial aid for the families of the victims.
The storm also caused disruptions across the city, including travel chaos and power cuts, underscoring Mumbai’s vulnerability to such weather events during the monsoon season.
Source-BBC
