Mumbai orders probe after tree collapse kills 11-year-old in school van

Mumbai authorities have ordered an inquiry after a 70-year-old peepal tree collapsed onto a school van in Chembur, killing an 11-year-old boy and injuring four other children. The tragic incident occurred during heavy rainfall as the van was transporting students home. Witnesses said the driver tried to move the vehicle after hearing the tree crack, but the narrow road left little room to escape before it fell.

The victim, identified as Vihan Srivastava, succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, while the other injured children are reported to be in stable condition. Following the accident, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde ordered a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tree collapse. Officials will examine whether complaints about the tree had been ignored and whether nearby road concreting work may have weakened its roots. Residents have claimed they had raised concerns about the tree's condition months before the incident but received no response from civic authorities.

The tragedy has renewed concerns over the maintenance of ageing trees and public safety during the monsoon. The inquiry will determine if negligence played a role, with officials promising strict action if lapses are found.