In a devastating incident during a severe dust storm in Mumbai, a massive billboard collapsed onto a fuel station in the Ghatkopar area, resulting in four fatalities and 59 injuries. The collapse, which occurred this evening, has also left twenty people feared trapped under the debris.

Details of the Incident:

The billboard, located directly opposite the fuel station, fell amidst strong wind gusts, striking the middle of the refueling facility. The impact was catastrophic as the metal frame of the billboard tore through the roof of several cars present at the site. Emergency response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were promptly dispatched to the scene to search for survivors and manage the crisis.

Government Response and Investigation:

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed on social media platform X that the state government has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The sudden dust storm caught Mumbai unprepared, disrupting transport, uprooting trees, damaging structures, and causing widespread power outages across the financial capital.

Impact on City Infrastructure and Services:

The dust storm had a significant impact on Mumbai’s infrastructure:

– Transportation: Local trains, a section of the metro network, and airport services were temporarily halted. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) suspended flight operations for approximately 66 minutes due to low visibility and gusty winds, resulting in 15 flight diversions. The metro service between Aarey and Andheri East was disrupted after a billboard damaged the overhead wire.

– Power and Safety Precautions: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a “nowcast warning” for a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning and moderate to intense rain for Thane, Palghar, and Mumbai, exacerbating the situation. Power outages were reported in areas like Thane’s Kalwa, adding to the challenges faced by residents.

Local and Social Reactions:

The community response was swift, with people posting visuals and updates on social media, helping to spread awareness and assist in the response efforts. Despite the storm bringing some respite from the recent heatwave, the overall impact was overwhelmingly negative, with significant disruptions to daily life and safety.

This tragic event underscores the need for stringent safety regulations concerning outdoor advertising structures, especially in weather-vulnerable areas like Mumbai. It also highlights the critical importance of disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in minimizing the impact of such natural calamities on densely populated urban centers.

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