Retired ATC Officer and Wife Feared Trapped in Ghatkopar Hoarding Collapse

Since Tuesday night, a somber vigil has unfolded at the site of a devastating hoarding collapse in Ghatkopar, where family members and friends anxiously await news of retired Air Traffic Control (ATC) General Manager Manoj Chansoria and his wife. The couple is feared to be trapped under the rubble following the catastrophic incident that claimed at least 14 lives and injured 75 others on Monday evening at a local petrol pump in Chheda Nagar.

Manoj Chansoria, who concluded his distinguished career as a general manager at Mumbai's ATC in March, had recently relocated to Jabalpur. The couple was visiting Mumbai for personal reasons and were believed to be returning to Jabalpur in their red TATA-made car when they lost contact. The last known location of Chansoria's mobile phone coincided with the petrol pump's location, raising fears that they were caught in the disaster while refueling their vehicle amidst severe weather conditions.

Their son, residing in the USA, is rushing back to India, with his arrival expected on Wednesday night. The community has rallied around the site, holding onto hope for the couple's safe recovery. Colleagues and acquaintances of Manoj Chansoria have been flocking to the site, reflecting on his character and contributions. An ATC official remembered him as a "gem of a person," while Prashant Srivastava, a union leader of the ATC Guild, praised him for his humility and kindness.

Arvind Nair, responsible for the ATC guest house where the Chansorias stayed during their visit, along with Kranti Kiran, a recent transfer to Mumbai ATC, echoed the sentiments of respect and admiration for Manoj Chansoria. Amidst the anxiety and uncertainty, Anita's cousin voiced the collective hope and fear of those awaiting news at the site.

The tragic event has not only highlighted the dangers posed by such structures during adverse weather conditions but also brought together a community in solidarity and concern for one of their own. As rescue and search operations continue relentlessly, there is a shared longing for positive news regarding Manoj Chansoria and his wife.