Following the fatal billboard collapse in Ghatkopar, Mumbai which claimed 16 lives and injured several others, the Indian Outdoor Advertising Association (IOAA) has come out with a statement reiterating its commitment to assist in efforts to ensure such a tragedy does not reoccur.

Expressing solidarity with the victims' families, the IOAA president Pawan Bansal said, "On behalf of the India Outdoor Advertising Association (IOAA) and its members, we wish to express our deep sorrow over the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of life following the collapse of a billboard at a petrol station in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. This event has deeply affected us, and our thoughts are with the families enduring this painful time."

"The IOAA has consistently advocated for strict adherence to local regulations and safety standards concerning the installation of hoardings. We prioritise safety and diligently promote compliance among our members," the national body of outdoor media owners stated.

Responding to the initiatives undertaken by the civic officials to regulate hoardings in Mumbai, the body further said, "The IOAA fully supports the initiatives undertaken by the Maharashtra Government and the BMC to audit and regulate hoarding structures throughout the city. We are committed to assisting in these efforts to ensure such a tragedy does not occur again."

"We are determined to work closely with all relevant authorities to enhance safety measures and regulatory compliance. We appreciate the ongoing support and understanding of the community as we strive to make necessary improvements," it added.

Earlier last week in the aftermath of the tragedy, with rising calls for strict measures against unauthorised hoardings, the BMC had sprung into action and started removing illegal hoardings which were found in violation of the civic policy norms. The civic body has reportedly identified 179 illegal hoardings across the city. 1,025 legal hoardings are currently placed in Mumbai.

According to media reports, the BMC has now turned its gaze towards the authorised hoardings in the city, with ward offices asking the owners/agencies to carry out a structural audit of the hoardings.

Meanwhile, a Mumbai court on Friday remanded Bhavesh Bhinde, director of the advertising firm that installed the hoarding that collapsed in suburban Ghatkopar claiming 16 lives, in police custody until 26 May.

A case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder under the IPC was registered at the Pant Nagar Police Station against Bhinde, all directors of the advertising agency Ego Media, its officials, and employees, following the tragedy.