Mumbai: The collapse of Sai Darshan building in Ghatkopar on Tuesday morning resulted in massive traffic jams, particularly in the initial one hour. Traffic was subsequently diverted to ensure rescue operations were not affected. The building was situated on LBS Road, an arterial road connecting Sion to Mulund. The initial panicked halt caused a backlog of vehicles in both lanes.
Traffic Police officers said the control room received word about the collapse first, and relayed it to them and nearby chowkies. Joint CP (Traffic) Amitesh Kumar said, “The priority was to keep the way clear for ambulances and fire engines. We deployed around 50 personnel.” He added there was a massive traffic jam in the first hour after the collapse, and diversions were put into place. “Traffic on LBS road was diverted to the Eastern Express Highway to clear snarls.”
Their work was further complicated by several political leaders and senior civic officials who visited the site, as they had to follow ‘VIP movement’ procedure involving clearing the way for them. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, too, visited the spot on Tuesday night.
Police officers said the early diversion of traffic helped in dealing with VIP movement. Police personnel were instructed to to ensure ambulances had the right of way at all times. Personnel from Parksite police station barricaded the site, limiting entry to rescue workers.