At least 14 people were killed by a falling billboard in Mumbai, India, after its structure collapsed due to high winds and crashed into several homes and a gas station.
Local police said The billboard measured 70 meters by 50 meters, or about 230 feet by 165 feet, and collapsed near a gas pump in the suburb of Ghatkopar on Monday.
Dozens of people were trapped in the rubble for hours, police added.
City officials confirmed in a statement about that 14 people died in the collapse and 75 others were injured. As of Tuesday, when the statement was issued, at least 31 of them had left their medical treatment.
They said “fast winds” had brought down the stockade.
Images shared on social media showed the billboard’s metal supports giving way as it tilted to one side, flattening cars and buildings in seconds.
Video of the aftermath released by The Associated Press showed the collapsed roof of the gas station, where crews worked to clear debris.
Local media reported that the billboard was larger than allowed by law and may have been erected without permission. The BBC, citing city authorities, reported the same thing.
Municipal authorities said the They have since demolished three billboards installed illegally near the collapsed advertisement.
“An investigation has already been ordered into the incident. Strict action will be taken against the culprits,” he added. said Devendra FadnavisDeputy Chief Minister of the State of Mumbai, Maharashtra.
He said the government had arranged financial assistance of around $6,000 for affected families. Typical annual salaries in the city range from $5,200 to $7,200 per salary consolidation company.
Mumbai was hit by heavy rains and strong winds last week, and the Indian Meteorological Department expects thunderstorms and gusts to continue in Maharashtra for several days.
Dust storms also appeared intermittently amid the rains, covering the city of 18 million people in gray and orange hues.
The coastal urban center hasn’t even reached its monsoon season, which typically runs from June to September. Mumbai is often prone to flooding during this time, with local media estimating that around 35% of the city faces chronic flooding.
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