Over 550 civil society organisations and citizens have collectively petitioned the Maharashtra government, urging the immediate removal of all illegal and unstable hoardings, billboards, and signages across Mumbai. The petition, addressed to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Government Railway Police (GRP), Maharashtra Chief Minister, and Disaster Management Authority, emphasises the urgent need for action to prevent further incidents of hoarding collapses.
This call to action follows the tragic Ghatkopar hoarding collapse on May 13, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of 17 people and left several others injured. Despite this incident, the petitioners argue that multiple hazards continue to occur, particularly with the onset of the monsoon season, due to the authorities’ failure to take decisive action. The petitioners are demanding strict compliance with the Supreme Court’s order dated June 7, 2024. This order, issued in the context of the civic body’s challenge to the Bombay High Court’s decision on hoardings on railway land, mandates that the authorities take immediate steps to prevent future collapses of hoardings. The Supreme Court specifically directed that no hoarding collapses should occur during the monsoons, underscoring the importance of proactive measures.
The petition calls for a comprehensive survey to identify all illegal, oversized, and unstable hoardings, billboards, and signages in Mumbai. The petitioners insist that these structures should be removed without delay. Furthermore, they urge the authorities to coordinate with the Disaster Management Authority to ensure preparedness for multi-hazard events and to prevent future human-induced disasters.
One petitioner highlighted the need for public accountability, stating, “Issue a public statement confirming that necessary action for removal of all illegal, oversized, and unstable hoardings, billboards, and signages has been taken by the authorities.” This statement would serve as a reassurance to the public that the government is taking the necessary steps to protect their safety.
The petition also demands exemplary penalties and fines for offenders who have installed unauthorised and illegal hoardings, billboards, and signages. The petitioners believe that stringent enforcement of these measures is essential to deter future violations and to ensure the safety of Mumbai’s residents.
