WR to audit Churchgate building after panels fall off, kill commuter

MUMBAI: A day after aluminium claddings of a Gandhi mural at Churchgate station came loose and fell on three pedestrians, including a 63-year-old man who died in the incident, Western Railway announced that a structural audit would be conducted of all four sides of the building.
Dahisar resident Madhukar Narvekar succumbed to his injuries at G T Hospital; the aluminium claddings had fallen on his chest. GRP registered an accidental death case.

Ravinder Bhakar, chief public relations officer, WR, said, “We have appointed an external agency to undertake the structural audit.” Bhakar, though, said the structural audit was planned before the tragedy as the letter of intent was already issued to the auditor on June 11.
Five panels came loose as the passing Cyclone Vayu had led to strong winds on Wednesday. The report will take time as the metal claddings will have to be tested in a laboratory. Besides, the agency might also recommend steps to keep such structures stable in case of strong winds. WR has already decided to remove all loose panels.
A source said, “The audit will help determine whether to retain the mural.” Experts have blamed poor workmanship for the mishap. WR has blamed wind passed through the gap between the wall and the façade below the mural for the mishap.