A retired Air Traffic Control (ATC) manager and his wife were tragically among the victims of a devastating incident in Mumbai, where a 250-tonne hoarding collapsed during a severe dust storm. The bodies of Manoj Chansoria, 60, and Anita Chansoria, 59, were discovered inside their car on Wednesday night, trapped under the debris of the fallen hoarding at a petrol pump in east Mumbai.
Mr. Manoj Chansoria, who had retired as a general manager of Mumbai ATC in March this year, and his wife were visiting Mumbai temporarily to complete visa formalities for Mrs. Chansoria. The couple, on their way back to Jabalpur, had stopped at the Ghatkopar petrol pump for refuelling when the storm struck.
Concerned after failed attempts to reach them, their son, residing in the US, sought help from a friend in Mumbai, leading to a missing complaint being lodged with the police. Tracking the couple’s mobile phones, authorities located their last known position near the Ghatkopar petrol pump.
Despite efforts from friends and relatives, hopes of rescue faded as search and rescue operations revealed the tragic outcome. The collapse claimed the lives of 16 individuals, leaving 41 others injured. Fortunately, 34 survivors have been discharged from hospitals following treatment.
The incident has sparked outrage as it was revealed that the hoarding, exceeding permitted dimensions and weight, was installed by Bhavesh Bhinde, the owner of the advertising agency. Bhinde, with a history of legal issues, including a rape case, now faces charges of culpable homicide.
In response, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and pledged government support for the medical expenses of the injured.
Despite the tragic loss, questions arise about the safety protocols surrounding the installation of such massive hoardings, particularly in regions prone to high-speed winds. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by lax regulations and improper construction practices in urban areas.
