In a recent revelation, it has come to light that the Gambhira Bridge in Vadodara underwent significant repairs costing ₹1.18 crore last year. This information surfaced following a tragic accident that resulted in 13 fatalities, including three members of the same family. The bridge, which was constructed in 1985, serves as a crucial link for vehicles traveling from Bharuch district to Saurashtra.
The repair work was carried out by a Surat-based agency named Dhruvin P. Patel. Despite the substantial investment in repairs, it appears that the structural integrity of the bridge was not adequately addressed. A consultant visited the site last year and recommended a protective coating for the bridge. However, no suggestions regarding the structural condition were made.
The repairs included the installation of parapets and resurfacing, which were completed by July 2024. Additionally, during this monsoon season, large potholes appeared on the bridge and the approach roads, which were promptly filled. This ongoing maintenance highlights the continuous issues faced by infrastructure in the region.
The incident that raised alarms occurred when two trucks, an auto-rickshaw, and a pickup truck plunged into the river from a height of 18 meters after the bridge collapsed. Eyewitnesses reported that the bridge had been the subject of numerous complaints regarding its safety and condition prior to the accident.
Following the disaster, authorities have pledged to conduct inspections of all bridges in Ahmedabad to ensure public safety. The Gambhira Bridge accident has underscored the urgent need for thorough checks and repairs to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The unfortunate loss of life has stirred emotions in the community, with many calling for greater accountability from local authorities and contractors. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining public infrastructure and prioritizing the safety of citizens.
In light of this event, it is crucial that authorities take immediate and effective measures to assess and reinforce the structural integrity of bridges across Gujarat. The Gambhira Bridge, once a vital route for commuters, now stands as a symbol of the urgent need for infrastructure improvement in the region. Citizens are hopeful that lessons will be learned from this tragedy to ensure safer travel in the future.
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