GUJARAT: In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Padra taluka of Vadodara, Gujarat, collapsed, sending multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River and leaving nine people dead and at least six others rescued with injuries.
The bridge, a vital link between Vadodara and Anand districts, gave way at around 7:30 AM during peak traffic hours. Initial reports indicate that four vehicles—including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van—were on the bridge when it crumbled, plunging them into the river below.
Rescue operations were launched immediately with teams from the Municipal Corporation, Fire Brigade, Emergency Response Centre, NDRF, and police reaching the site. Local residents also pitched in to help extract survivors from the wreckage. Vadodara Collector Anil Dhameliya confirmed the death toll and said efforts were underway to locate any remaining victims.
“We have recovered 9 bodies so far. Six injured persons have been rescued and are receiving medical treatment,” said Dhameliya. The Vadodara Police and District Administration have cordoned off the area and warned commuters to avoid the route.
State Minister Rushikesh Patel termed the incident “unfortunate” and said that although the bridge, built in 1985, underwent regular maintenance, the collapse still occurred. “Despite timely repairs, this tragic event has taken place. A full investigation is being ordered,” he said.
Officials from the Roads & Buildings Department confirmed that a technical team has been sent to the site to assess the cause and extent of the damage. Secretary PR Patelia said a full structural audit of similar bridges in the region would soon follow.
Anand SP Gaurav Jasani confirmed that 3–4 vehicles had plunged into the river, while Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the site to oversee rescue efforts and speak with officials.
Eyewitnesses said a loud cracking noise was heard just moments before the vehicles fell. “There was no time to react. The bridge simply gave way,” said one local.
The tragedy has sparked outrage among residents and political leaders. Locals claimed repeated warnings about the deteriorating condition of the bridge had been ignored by authorities. Some even described it as a “known hazard” and “notorious suicide point.”
Senior Congress leader Amit Chavda took to social media to express grief and demand immediate action. “The Gambhira bridge collapse is a serious failure of public safety. Immediate rescue and investigation are essential,” he posted.
As cranes were deployed to recover the sunken vehicles and divers continued searching for possible missing persons, authorities have promised a thorough inquiry into the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, alternate routes are being arranged for affected commuters.
A technical inspection and safety audit of bridges across the region is now expected to prevent such tragedies in the future.
