In Mumbai, a heartbreaking incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when a mature roadside tree collapsed onto a school bus in the Chembur area, resulting in the death of an 11-year-old student. The boy, identified as Vihan Shrivastav, was crushed in the accident, while several other children sustained injuries.
Authorities reported that the tree, believed to be around 70 years old, uprooted suddenly and struck the bus operated by a private company transporting students from Universal High School. Rescue efforts freed the trapped children, with four suffering minor injuries and another critically hurt. All injured students received prompt medical attention at a nearby hospital.
The episode has sparked sharp questions about urban tree maintenance ahead of the monsoon season. When asked about the tragedy, Maharashtra’s Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat acknowledged the event and noted that the government planned to address it in the state assembly. He emphasized that directives had been issued to civic authorities to prevent future occurrences.
As discussions intensified, the minister elaborated on the challenges involved. He described tree falls as natural events beyond full human control, akin to lightning strikes, noting that one cannot always predict when a tree might come down, especially during strong winds. Shirsat affirmed that audits are conducted as standard procedure and that maintenance work remains ongoing. Despite the circumstances, he expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life.
ALSO READ : 11-Year-Old Killed After Tree Falls On School Bus In Chembur; 4 Injured
The remarks drew immediate criticism from opposition voices. A spokesperson for the Sharad Pawar-led party labeled the minister’s comments as insensitive, arguing that proper pre-monsoon tree audits by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are essential responsibilities. The spokesperson highlighted reports suggesting inadequate auditing and called for greater accountability in protecting public safety.
In response to the incident, another minister from the same alliance, Yogesh Kadam, stated that those found responsible would face action. He described the event as unfortunate and pledged steps to avoid repetitions, promising strict measures wherever lapses occur.
A Bharatiya Janata Party legislator, Sanjay Upadhyay, also termed the episode extremely unfortunate. He stressed the importance of timely tree trimming and removal of weak specimens during the rainy season, underscoring that while tree maintenance is necessary, safeguarding human lives must remain paramount. Upadhyay urged municipal authorities to address the issue proactively.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding infrastructure preparedness in densely populated urban centers during adverse weather. Officials continue to investigate the precise circumstances surrounding the tree’s collapse.
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