Bridge Collapse in Gujarat: 13 Feared Dead, Rescue Operations Ongoing

Vadodara, Gujarat | A tragic accident struck Gujarat on Tuesday morning as a section of the Gambhira Bridge, connecting the districts of Vadodara and Anand, collapsed suddenly, sending multiple vehicles into the Mahisagar River below.

According to initial reports, the incident occurred around 8:30 AM, during peak traffic hours. Eyewitnesses described a loud cracking sound followed by the sudden collapse of a central portion of the bridge. Within seconds, several vehicles, including a pickup truck, cars, and motorcycles, were swept into the water.

Emergency services rushed to the scene. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local fire units are conducting search and rescue operations. Divers have been deployed to locate victims, and cranes are being used to retrieve the vehicles submerged in the river.

As of the latest update, at least 13 people are confirmed dead, and several others remain missing or injured. Those rescued have been shifted to Padra Civil Hospital and Vadodara Medical College for treatment.

District officials have cordoned off the area and launched a formal investigation into the cause of the collapse. Local residents claim that the bridge, built nearly 40 years ago, had visible cracks and signs of structural weakness. Complaints had reportedly been raised in the past regarding its deteriorating condition.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin and ₹50,000 for those injured. He also directed the Public Works Department to submit a detailed report within 48 hours.

This incident follows other infrastructure-related tragedies in the state, raising concerns about the safety of aging public structures. A high-level technical team is expected to inspect other nearby bridges as a precautionary measure.

The Gambhira Bridge served as a key link between central Gujarat and western regions. Authorities are now working to reroute traffic and ensure safety along alternative routes until reconstruction efforts begin.

By Sayani Mishra