Gujarat: A major tragedy struck Gujarat’s Vadodara district early Wednesday when a portion of the decades-old Gambhira bridge collapsed, leading to the deaths of at least 12 people and leaving nine others injured. The incident unfolded near Padra town when a 10 to 15-metre-long slab of the bridge gave way, plunging several vehicles — including trucks, vans, an auto-rickshaw, and a two-wheeler — straight into the Mahisagar river below. Among the victims were two siblings, as confirmed by local officials.
This bridge, built in 1985, serves as a vital route connecting central Gujarat with the Saurashtra region. On the day of the collapse, the affected span, located between two piers, crumbled without warning, resulting in a horrifying scene as caught on video — vehicles tumbling into the river amid panic and chaos. Passersby and eyewitnesses described the moment as one of total shock and helplessness, as several vehicles instantly disappeared into the river.
Rescue efforts were launched within minutes, with teams from the fire department, local volunteers, and personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) working round the clock. Vadodara (Rural) Superintendent of Police Roshan Anand stated that nine people were rescued, five of whom are currently receiving treatment at Vadodara’s SSG Hospital. Fortunately, none of them are in critical condition. However, concerns remain that more vehicles are still submerged, and officials warned the death toll could increase.
Vadodara Collector Anil Dhameliya said that, in total, six vehicles had fallen into the river. In a stroke of luck, two other vehicles that had been teetering on the edge were pulled to safety just in time. Additionally, three people on a two-wheeler managed to escape by swimming to shore.
Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel assured that the bridge’s maintenance had been carried out as required over the years, but admitted the exact cause of the collapse remains unclear and would be thoroughly investigated. Technical experts have already been dispatched to conduct a preliminary assessment. A probe is underway by a panel that includes senior engineers and private bridge construction specialists to determine the technical and structural factors behind the collapse.
The incident triggered reactions from the highest levels of leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a foreign tour at the time, personally reached out to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel for updates. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced ₹2 lakh in compensation for each of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured through the PMNRF. Chief Minister Patel also announced ₹4 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives.
The Chief Minister added that the Prime Minister not only offered condolences but also sought details about the ongoing rescue efforts and treatment being provided to the injured. Orders were issued immediately to prioritize medical aid and ensure proper care for the survivors.
President Droupadi Murmu also mourned the loss, describing the incident as “extremely tragic.” Offering condolences to the bereaved families, she expressed hope for the speedy recovery of the injured.
As the state reels from yet another infrastructure-related disaster, the focus has now shifted to accountability. Authorities have promised a swift investigation, but for the families of the victims, the pain and shock of this unexpected tragedy will not fade easily.
