The 70-meter by 50-meter structure fell onto houses and a gas station in the eastern Ghatkopar suburb.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency services searching for survivors trapped under the debris. The Maharashtra state government has launched an investigation into the incident.

Local news footage captured the dramatic scene - the giant billboard swaying before collapsing onto buildings near a busy road. Vehicles were crushed in the accident. Images show rescue teams working tirelessly through the wreckage, using power tools to cut metal and free victims.

The storm brought violent winds, heavy rain, and uprooted trees across the city. It also disrupted flights and caused another incident where a metal structure at a construction site crushed two vehicles.

This tragedy, coinciding with India's national election, raises concerns about Mumbai's infrastructure. Poor construction quality and the proliferation of large advertising boards, especially during elections, highlight potential safety hazards.

While existing issues like weak construction and corruption contribute to accidents, climate change is adding a new threat. More frequent extreme weather events pose a significant risk for India, a country highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has ordered an audit of all billboards in Mumbai to address safety concerns. Illegal and dangerous structures will be removed immediately.

The India Meteorological Department had predicted thunderstorms and strong winds, but cyclonic activity is unusual for this time of year, preceding the monsoon season. (ILKHA)