Fourteen individuals lost their lives, and over 60 sustained injuries after a billboard collapsed during a fierce storm in Mumbai, officials confirmed on Monday.Billboard Collapse IncidentThe incident occurred near a fuel station, with visual evidence capturing the structure crashing down amidst the refuelling area. Authorities are investigating whether the billboard agency had the necessary permissions to install the structure, which led to this tragic accident.मुंबई के घाटकोपर क्षेत्र में होर्डिंग गिरने से अनेक लोगों के हताहत होने का समाचार अत्यंत दुखद है। मैं शोक संतप्त परिवारजनों के प्रति गहन संवेदना व्यक्त करती हूं। मैं घायल हुए लोगों के शीघ्र स्वस्थ होने की प्रार्थना करती हूं तथा राहत और बचाव कार्य की सफलता की कामना करती हूं।— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 13, 2024An eyewitness, Swapnil Khupte, recounted the chaotic scene: I was there when a big hoarding of some builder fell down. All the cars, bikes, and people that were there got stuck. We helped people get out and somehow manage to escape, Khupte told a news agency.Rescue Efforts and Official StatementsRescue teams, including units from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), rushed to the scene to search for survivors trapped under the debris. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde prioritised rescue operations and assured financial assistance to the families of the deceased. Rs 5 lakh will be given to the family of those who have lost their lives, he stated.Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that an investigation has been initiated by the state government into the incident. Mumbai faced severe disruptions due to the strong dust storm, impacting transportation, causing tree and structure collapses, and resulting in power outages across several districts.Transport Disruptions and Weather UpdatesLocal trains, parts of the metro network, and airport services were temporarily halted due to low visibility and gusty winds. Due to the inclement weather and dust storms in the city, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) temporarily suspended flight operations for around 66 minutes due to low visibility and gusty winds, the airport authorities stated.The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and moderate to intense rain for Thane, Palghar, and Mumbai.Impact on Public Transport and Power SupplyMetro services were disrupted, and suburban trains faced operational challenges due to the storm. The suburban services on the main line have been stopped, said the chief spokesperson of Central Railway. Additionally, power outages in various areas added to the difficulties faced by residents, especially in Thanes Kalwa and other regions.
