Ghatkopar hoarding collapse: Billboard collapse could have been a larger catastrophe

Cars still stuck under the collapsed billboard

A bigger tragedy was averted in the hoarding collapse at Bharat Petroleum in Ghatkopar, which occurred during daylight when the hoarding lights were switched off. According to fire brigade officials, if the hoarding lights had been switched on, there could have been a chance of a short circuit and potential blast in the CNG pumps. Fortunately, the hoarding did not fall on the CNG pumps, saving thousands of lives, preventing a larger catastrophe.

The billboard collapsed on Monday during an unexpected rain and dust storm with fast winds

According to the Government Railway Police (GRP) officials, the incident occurred around 4.10 pm on Monday during an unexpected rain and dust storm with fast winds. Bharat Petroleum is located on the Eastern Express Highway, opposite Ramabai Nagar in Ghatkopar East. Due to the sudden rain, bikers sought shelter and entered the petrol pump for relief, only to be trapped in this tragedy.

Around 14 people died and 74 were seriously injured. There are suspicions that more individuals are still trapped inside. Over 70 cars and bikes are also trapped under the collapsed hoarding. A fire brigade official said, "There were four CNG station pumps and over eight petrol pump stations with long queues for CNG refilling. The hoarding collapsed due to strong winds, falling on the petrol pump."

A rescue worker

"Fortunately, it missed the CNG pump station, preventing a larger disaster. The collapse occurred during daylight, saving numerous lives as the hoarding lights were off. If the lights had been on, a short circuit could have occurred, leading to a potential blast," explained the fire brigade officer. Currently, over 300 staff, including fire brigade, police officers, and BMC personnel, are deployed to rescue individuals trapped under the debris.

A police officer said, "During the fast winds and unexpected rain on Monday, bikers on the highway sought refuge and entered the petrol pump, resulting in approximately 150-200 people being inside the petrol pump. When the hoarding suddenly collapsed, people were trapped, but many individuals in the corner of the petrol pump were saved."

People are taking photos of the site is hindering rescue operations say authorities

Another police officer said, "We are facing difficulties in the rescue operation as many bikers and car passengers are stopping on the highway to film videos of the site. People are taking photos and making videos, causing congestion and disrupting the rescue operation. We have deployed numerous police officers and traffic cops to manage traffic at the site. People should refrain from filming unnecessarily during emergencies, as it hinders the authorities' work."

4.10 pm
Time of the incident on Monday