At least four people were killed and 64 injured after a huge billboard fell on a petrol pump in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area on Monday. The incident occurred due to strong dust storms followed by heavy rain which caused mayhem in the city. The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. at the Police Ground petrol pump along the Eastern Express Highway in Pantnagar.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) reporting that 67 people have been pulled from the debris. Injured individuals were brought to Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar for treatment.
The civic body said it would file a case against the Railways and advertising company Ego Media, alleging the illegally installed hoarding caused the loss of life and property.
The strong storm disrupted transportation across Mumbai, uprooting trees and structures and causing power outages in many districts. The sky darkened as the storm hit, with residents posting images on social media.
Local trains, a section of the metro network, and airport services were temporarily halted due to low visibility and strong winds. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) suspended flight operations for about 66 minutes.
"Operations resumed at 5:03 PM. During this time, the airport saw 15 diversions," CSMIA said in a statement. "The airport remains committed to prioritizing seamless operations while ensuring passenger safety."
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a "nowcast warning" forecasting thunderstorms with lightning and moderate to heavy rain for Thane, Palghar, and Mumbai.
Metro service between Aarey and Andheri East was suspended after a billboard fell on overhead wires. Suburban trains were also affected after an overhead equipment pole between Thane and Mulund bent due to strong winds. Central Railway officials said suburban services on the main line were stopped.