4-year-old girl dies after loudspeakers fall on her during Republic Day celebrations in Mumbai

A tragic accident during Republic Day celebrations in Mumbai’s Vikhroli area claimed the life of a young girl after loudspeakers installed for the event collapsed on her. The incident occurred in Tagore Nagar’s Ambedkar Nagar locality, sending shockwaves through the neighbourhood and raising questions over safety arrangements at public celebrations.

CCTV footage from the area shows a man carrying fabric scraps accidentally snagging the loudspeaker wire, causing the equipment to topple. The child, who was playing nearby, was struck by the falling speakers and sustained critical injuries. She was rushed to a hospital by local residents but was declared dead on arrival.

Police officials said the loudspeakers had been placed for Republic Day functions organised by a local group. Preliminary findings suggest negligence in securing the equipment, with the speakers kept in a manner that made them vulnerable to collapse.

An FIR has been registered under provisions dealing with death caused by negligence against those responsible for placing the loudspeakers and the individual whose load triggered the fall. Notices have been issued, and further investigation is underway to determine accountability.

The incident has sparked anger and grief among residents, who have demanded stricter safety norms and checks during public events to prevent such tragedies in the future.