Mumbai Hoarding Collapse: Death toll rises to 14, 74 injured

Tragedy Strikes Mumbai: 14 Lives Lost, 74 Wounded in Hoarding Collapse

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Omkar Devadkar

Last Updated: May 14, 2024

Summary: A 100-foot-tall billboard collapsed in Mumbai during a dust storm and heavy rain, killing at least 14 people and injuring 74 more.

The death toll from a large hoarding collapse in Mumbai increased to 14 in the early hours of Tuesday, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) carrying out nighttime rescue operations for people trapped. At least 74 people suffered injuries in the tragedy.

"The incident was reported at 5 p.m. A massive advertisement hoarding toppled on a petrol pump. Approximately 65 people have been rescued. The NDRF has rescued three people and discovered four dead bodies beneath the wreckage. We are unable to employ hydraulic or gasoline-powered equipment to avoid a fire. We're utilizing cranes to remove the wreckage. The NDRF has rescued three people. Before that, 65 had been saved. The rescue operations will continue until the morning." NDRF Inspector Gaurav Chauhan told ANI.

"74 people have been hospitalized at Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar. One is in serious condition, and four people were killed in the tragedy. BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani added, "We have also learned that four others are said to have died."

Government has offered a five-lakh compensation package for the deceased's family members. This comes just a few hours after the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) arrived at the scene to rescue those trapped under the wreckage. The BMC Commissioner stated that 20 to 30 people are still stuck.

Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar offered prayers to those who died in the disaster in Mumbai's Ghatkopar, and wished those injured a swift recovery from the hoarding collapse.

Vice President Dhankar also prayed for the rapid recovery of everyone hurt in the unfortunate incident.

"I'm saddened to hear of the deaths in a billboard collapse incident in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. My thoughts are with the grieving families during this terrible time. I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured," VP Dhankar stated.