Death toll rises to 16 in Mumbai billboard collapse incident

KATHMANDU: According to Indian local media reports, citing civic body officials, disclosed on Wednesday that the death toll from the massive collapse of an iron billboard in Mumbai’s financial hub has climbed to 16, following the discovery of two additional bodies.

These bodies were found beneath the rubble during the ongoing search and rescue operations, which have persisted for over 40 hours.

The collapse occurred on Monday evening amidst strong winds and heavy rains in the Ghatkopar area of the city.

The towering billboard, standing at 100 feet, toppled onto a petrol pump at the Chedda Nagar junction, ensnaring vehicles and individuals.

Rescue teams had earlier recovered 14 bodies from the scene, while 75 others were reported injured.

In response to the incident, the local government has launched an investigation to ascertain the parties responsible for authorizing the installation of the billboard.

Meanwhile, the police have stated that the owner of the advertising agency, accountable for erecting the billboard, is presently eluding authorities.