Ambernath: A six-year-old entrance arch in front of the Balajinagar temple in Khuntavali, Ambernath West, collapsed suddenly around 1:30 pm on September 20, triggering panic among residents and bringing traffic to a halt. The arch reportedly split into two sections, with a large portion crashing onto the road during peak hours. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

The entrance arch was inaugurated around six years ago by MLA Dr. Balaji Kinikar and was constructed using public funds through the Ambernath Municipal Council. Its collapse within a relatively short period has raised serious questions among residents about the quality of construction and materials used in the structure.

Following the incident, Ambernath police, municipal officials and public representatives reached the spot and assessed the situation. Residents have demanded a detailed technical investigation to establish the exact cause of the collapse and strict action against those found responsible.

BJP Floor Leader Abhijit Karanjule Patil, who visited the site, assured residents that an inquiry would be conducted and action taken against those responsible. He also said that, ahead of the upcoming Ganesh festival, the civic administration would take action against "unauthorized and dangerous arches, banners, and hoardings" across the city.

Ambernath Municipal Corporation City Engineer Rajesh Tadvi said, “An investigation is initiated by the civic administration to determine the exact cause of the collapse.”

The incident has since triggered political allegations and counter-allegations in Ambernath, with the quality and accountability of civic construction work becoming a key point of contention