A tragic incident occurred this morning when a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed in Padra taluka, Vadodara. The collapse sent at least four vehicles—including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van—plunging into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River, claiming nine lives and injuring at least three others.
Collapse during busy morning traffic
The bridge, a vital link between the Anand and Vadodara districts, gave way during peak traffic hours. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound before the vehicles fell into the river.
Rescue teams from the fire brigade, local police, and the Vadodara district administration rushed to the scene. Locals also joined in rescue efforts, helping pull survivors from the wreckage. Three injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Safety concerns raised long before
Locals have expressed frustration, stating that the bridge had been in poor condition for years, with repeated warnings ignored by the authorities. Some even said the bridge had become known as a “suicide point” due to its neglected state.
Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the site soon after the incident. Senior Congress leader Amit Chavda also commented on the tragedy, demanding swift rescue and traffic management efforts.
Investigations and safety audits expected
Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a probe into the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, cranes were deployed to retrieve sunken vehicles, and search operations continued in the river for any missing persons.
A detailed technical inspection and safety audit of similar bridges in Gujarat is expected soon to prevent such tragedies in the future.
