A tragic incident unfolded in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar area on Monday, shedding light on lax regulations and a businessman with a controversial history.
Bhavesh Bhinde, the owner of Ego Media, the company allegedly responsible for the massive hoarding’s erection, now faces a culpable homicide charge following the collapse that resulted in the loss of 14 lives and left 74 others injured.
Bhinde’s involvement in the incident isn’t isolated, with reports revealing over 23 criminal cases against him, including recent allegations of rape. Currently on the run, Bhinde’s absence, marked by his switched-off phone, adds to the complexity of the situation.
The towering billboard, exceeding regulatory limits at 120×120 feet, had once secured a spot in the Limca Book of Records for its size. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) clarified that permissible dimensions for billboards are capped at 40×40 feet, highlighting a blatant disregard for regulations and safety standards.
Ego Media’s track record further underscores their penchant for rule violations. Allegations suggest Bhinde secured contracts from both Indian Railways and the BMC in the past, often bypassing regulatory protocols. Reports of tree poisoning and cutting to enhance billboard visibility only add to the concern.
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The fallout from the tragedy has sparked a blame game between the BMC and the Railways. While Ego Media claims approval from the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Railways), the BMC insists on mandatory approval for all billboards within its jurisdiction. This confusion underscores the need for clearer communication and oversight.
In response to the incident, the BMC commissioner has initiated a crackdown on all illegal hoardings in the city. Additionally, Central Railway authorities are conducting audits of similar structures across their zones.
The chief minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde is offering compensation of ₹5 lakh per family to the dead persons’ families as well as agreed to cater for medical bills of the injured. Lax regulations, potential corruption and disregard for safety are what the Mumbai billboard collapse shows up, focusing on those responsible while putting more stringent measures in place to prevent such occurrences again.
