Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse: Who is Bhavesh Bhide, owner of 17,040 square feet of illegal hoarding that claimed 14 lives?
Who is Bhavesh Bhide?
Bhavesh Bhide is the director of Ego Media Pvt Ltd, who owns the hoarding and the Outdoor Media Advertising agency responsible for the death of 14 lives after it collapsed in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. His company owns several other bill boards in the city.
What exactly happened?
The incident killed 14 people and injured more than 74 after a dust storm and heavy rains came at the speed of 60kmph. Around 150 vehicles were at the petrol pump along the Eastern Express Highway in Pant Nagar when the hoarding fell.
Illegal Hoarding
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) stated that the 250-tonne hoarding was illegal and was constructed without permission.
In Limca Book of Records
The hoarding measured about 17,040 square feet and was mentioned in the Limca Book of Records as the largest hoarding.
Notice from BMC
Following the tragic incident, the BMC has instructed Ego Media Pvt Ltd to remove 8 illegal hoardings in the area within 10 days, or else their license will get canceled.
Previous Complaints
Notably, a complaint against the illegal hoarding was filed by Ex-BJP MP Kirit Somaiya, leading to notice from BMC to GRP to remove them.
Police registers case
Mumbai Police has registered a case under sections of IPC 304, 338, 337, and 34 against Bhavish Bhide and Pantnagar Police Station. The investigation has been initiated.