Gujarat Bridge Collapse Claims 9 Lives, Sparks Safety Concerns Over Neglected Infrastructure
A tragic incident unfolded in Gujarat’s Padra taluka (Vadodara district) on Wednesday morning when a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River and resulting in nine fatalities.
The bridge, a crucial link between Anand and Vadodara districts, gave way during peak traffic hours. Three other people were injured and are currently receiving treatment at local hospitals.
Vehicles Fall as Bridge Crumbles
According to initial reports, four vehicles — including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van — were on the bridge when it suddenly gave out. Eyewitnesses recall hearing a loud cracking sound seconds before the vehicles disappeared into the river below.
Emergency services, including fire brigade teams, local police, and officials from the Vadodara district administration, quickly arrived at the scene. Rescue operations began immediately, with locals also joining in the effort to save those trapped in the wreckage.
Ignored Warnings, Growing Frustration
Residents and commuters have long raised concerns over the structural integrity of the Gambhira bridge, which has served as a key transit point for people traveling between Central Gujarat and Saurashtra, including cities like Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, and Ankleshwar.
“This bridge has been in poor condition for years. It’s not just a traffic hazard — people know it as a suicide point too. Repeated warnings went unheard,” said a local resident.
Officials Respond
Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the collapse site shortly after the incident and assured a full investigation. Authorities have cordoned off the area to prevent further accidents and have initiated a technical probe to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
The disaster has reignited debates around the state of aging infrastructure and administrative negligence in Gujarat, with many calling for urgent audits of other old bridges across the region.
