Pune: Massive Hoardings Collapse Amid Heavy Rain; Vehicles Damaged
Pune, May 16, 2025: On Thursday, two large hoardings collapsed near the Shell petrol pump in Bhukum, Taluka Mulshi in Pune following a sudden spell of heavy rain accompanied by strong winds. Eyewitnesses reported a loud crash as the structures fell, damaging several parked two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as pedestrians had taken shelter in a nearby hotel just before the incident.
Local residents and authorities acted swiftly to clear the wreckage and assess the damage. An official inquiry has been initiated to determine whether the hoardings adhered to structural safety standards and installation norms.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall has disrupted daily life in Pune’s rural areas, particularly in Mula-Mutha river basin regions like Pirangut, Lavale, Chandé, Nande, and Ghotawade. The downpour, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, caused waterlogging on roads, uprooted trees, and damaged crops, including mangoes and vegetables. Temporary sheds and rooftops were also blown away in several areas.
Pune, Maharashtra: Two large hoardings collapsed due to strong winds near the Shell petrol pump. Fortunately, there were no casualties as people had taken shelter in a nearby hotel due to rain. Several two-wheelers and four-wheelers parked under the hoardings were damaged. pic.twitter.com/t3Iu1E1tjF
— IANS (@ians_india) May 15, 2025
In anticipation of an above-average monsoon, Pune’s Divisional Commissioner, Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, chaired a high-level meeting on Wednesday to review preparedness. Officials from revenue, police, health, and urban local bodies attended, emphasizing seamless coordination.
Key measures discussed included ensuring the availability of essential medicines, affordable food through fair-price shops, clean drinking water, and uninterrupted public transport during adverse weather. Emergency response teams have been directed to remain on high alert.
