9 Dead as Bridge Collapses in Gujarat, Vehicles Plunge into River, PM Announces Ex‑Gratia
In a tragic incident that shook Gujarat, at least nine people lost their lives after a portion of a bridge collapsed, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the river below. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning in the Padra region of Vadodara district, disrupting a vital transportation link and prompting large-scale rescue efforts.
The Incident
The bridge, an important connector between Vadodara and nearby towns, suddenly gave way while several vehicles were crossing. Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene as cars, vans, and even trucks were seen tumbling into the swollen river. Local fishermen and nearby residents were the first to respond, rushing to pull survivors from the water even before emergency services arrived.
According to officials, at least five vehicles were involved in the fall, including an autorickshaw and a fuel tanker. Several bodies were recovered during an extensive rescue operation, while others were rushed to hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to critical.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigade, and local police launched swift rescue operations. Divers were deployed to search for any individuals possibly trapped underwater. Cranes and heavy machinery were brought in to retrieve the submerged vehicles.
Authorities stated that rescue operations would continue until all missing persons are accounted for. The site remains sealed off as safety inspections are conducted on the remaining structure of the bridge.
Government Response and Compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the loss of lives and announced ex‑gratia compensation for the victims’ families. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that ₹2 lakh will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased person, while ₹50,000 will be given to those injured.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also announced financial assistance from the state government, with an additional ₹4 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The state will also bear the cost of medical treatment for those hospitalised.
Questions Over Bridge Safety
The collapse has reignited concerns over the state of infrastructure in the region. Locals have alleged that the bridge, which was constructed over four decades ago, had shown signs of wear and vibration under heavy traffic. There were also reports that repairs had been carried out in the past year, raising serious questions about the quality of work and oversight.
Opposition parties were quick to criticize the state government, accusing it of negligence and calling for an independent probe into the incident. Many have demanded that accountability be fixed and strict action taken against those responsible for maintenance failures.
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Probe Ordered
In response to mounting pressure, the state government has formed a technical investigation committee comprising senior engineers and infrastructure experts to determine the exact cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest structural weakness, possibly worsened by recent monsoon rains, could be a factor.
A Stark Reminder
This disaster serves as a grim reminder of the need for rigorous inspection and timely maintenance of public infrastructure, particularly in regions susceptible to harsh weather conditions. As families mourn their loved ones, the tragedy calls for urgent attention to aging bridges and roads that millions of Indians rely on every day.
