Maharashtra Sets Up Inquiry on Hoarding Collapse Tragedy

The Maharashtra government has established a six-member committee to investigate the hoarding collapse in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area that killed 17. The committee, headed by former Chief Justice Dilip Bhosle, will investigate the responsible entities' roles, review approval processes, and recommend safety policy changes.

The Maharashtra government on Monday formed a six-member committee to investigate the illegal hoarding collapse tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 17 people in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, officials reported.

Chaired by former Chief Justice Dilip Bhosle, the panel includes the Director General of Police, an Additional Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a structural engineer from IIT Bombay, an Income Tax Officer, and a Chartered Accountant.

On May 13, a massive iron hoarding fell onto a petrol pump during a dust storm, killing 17 and injuring 74. The committee's mandate includes scrutinizing the roles of the entities behind the hoarding and petrol pump and investigating any potential collusion with various agencies. It will also evaluate the current approval and installation processes for hoardings on government and railway properties and propose enhancements to prevent future accidents.

Moreover, the committee will recommend a review of hoarding policies on railway and police lands to avoid similar incidents in the future. The investigation will focus on the adequacy of approval processes, safety protocols, and legality of the installations, as well as the land allotment process for petrol pumps and hoardings. It aims to suggest policy changes to boost safety and eliminate illegal operations.