Pune Collector Orders New Structural Audit of Hoardings In PCMC After Ghatkopar Incident

Following a tragic incident in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, where a giant iron advertisement board collapsed, claiming 14 lives and injuring 74 people, Pune Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase has taken proactive measures to prevent similar mishaps. The 140 by 140 square feet slab collapsed onto a petrol pump, trapping vehicles and civilians.

In light of this, Dr. Diwase has directed the Municipal Corporation to conduct a fresh structural audit of hoardings in Pimpri-Chinchwad. With the possibility of strong winds, unseasonal rains, and the upcoming monsoon season as per the Meteorological Department forecast, the Collector emphasizes the importance of ensuring hoarding safety to prevent loss of life, property damage, and traffic disruptions.

The directive mandates hoarding holders to redo the structural audit of all permitted hoardings within 15 days, submitting proof of the audit. Hoardings lacking the required audit will be deemed unauthorized, triggering immediate removal notices. Stringent action will be taken against all unauthorized hoardings, prioritizing those posing significant danger and obstructing traffic flow.

Additionally, the District Collector requires a detailed report on actions taken concerning hoarding holders who fail to submit certified proof of structural audit or comply with removal notices.