At least nine people lost their lives and several others were injured on Wednesday morning after a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Padra taluka, Vadodara district, collapsed, plunging multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River.
The bridge, a vital link between Anand and Vadodara districts, gave way during peak traffic hours, sending two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van crashing into the river below. According to eyewitnesses, a loud cracking sound preceded the collapse, triggering panic among commuters.
Rescue operations were launched swiftly by the Vadodara fire brigade, local police, and district administration. Local residents also participated in rescue efforts. So far, three people have been pulled out alive and shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala reached the site shortly after the tragedy, and the area has been sealed to prevent further mishaps. Authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the cause of the collapse.
Negligence Alleged by Locals
Locals have blamed the administration, citing years of neglect and ignoring repeated warnings about the deteriorating condition of the bridge. The structure was also reportedly used frequently as a suicide point, highlighting a lack of security and upkeep.
“The Gambhira bridge has become notorious not just as a traffic hazard but also as a suicide point. Repeated warnings about its condition were ignored,” said a local resident.
Senior Congress leader Amit Chavda shared his concern on social media, stating:
“The main Gambhira bridge connecting Anand and Vadodara districts has collapsed. Many vehicles have fallen into the river, and major casualties are feared. The administration must immediately carry out rescue operations and arrange alternate routes for traffic.”
Search and Recovery Underway
Divers and cranes have been deployed to search the river and retrieve submerged vehicles. Officials fear there may still be missing persons under the wreckage.
A comprehensive technical audit and structural inspection of bridges in the region is expected to follow, as authorities scramble to prevent similar disasters in the future.
Further updates awaited.
