New Delhi: The Supreme Court has issued a directive to Mumbai authorities, emphasising the necessity of stringent measures to prevent incidents similar to the catastrophic hoarding collapse in Ghatkopar, which resulted in 17 fatalities. The court’s mandate comes as the monsoon season approaches, a period that poses increased risks for structural failures. The bench, comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and P B Varale, underscored the urgency of the matter during a hearing related to the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai’s (MCGM) application.
The application pertains to the applicability of certain provisions of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act (MMCA) to hoardings erected on railway-owned land. The Justices stressed that such incidents must be avoided on all land, irrespective of ownership.
In defence, a counsel noted that the Ghatkopar incident was not directly before the court, clarifying that the collapsed illegal hoarding was not situated on railway property. Despite this, the Justices insisted on the importance of preventive measures across all terrains, whether municipal or railway-owned.
Representing the MCGM, counsel argued that the Corporation’s responsibilities extend beyond the MMCA to include the Disaster Management Act, which supersedes other legislative frameworks. The counsel also highlighted that several illegal hoardings have been identified on railway land, prompting further scrutiny and regulatory action.
The case is scheduled for further consideration next week, as the court evaluates the broader implications and necessary legal adjustments.
The tragic Ghatkopar incident, which claimed 17 lives and injured 75, was attributed to the weak foundation of the pillar supporting the massive 120 ft x 120 ft hoarding, which collapsed during a dust storm. This incident brought to light severe regulatory lapses and the pressing need for stricter enforcement of hoarding policies. The MCGM’s plea challenges a high court judgment that exempted railway-erected hoardings from Sections 328 and 328A of the MMCA. According to MCGM, the collapsed hoarding violated BMC’s policy, which mandates a maximum size of 40 ft x 40 ft for hoardings, considering Mumbai’s coastal location and high wind speeds.
The Supreme Court’s directive is a pivotal step towards ensuring stricter compliance with safety regulations. By reinforcing the need for robust foundations and adherence to size restrictions, the court aims to prevent future tragedies and enhance public safety. As Mumbai gears up for the monsoon, the onus is on the authorities to implement these measures effectively and avert potential disasters.
