Gujarat is facing a severe infrastructure crisis. In recent years, several bridges have collapsed, causing loss of life and raising serious safety concerns. The most recent tragedy occurred on July 9, 2025, when the Gambhira Bridge in Vadodara collapsed, killing at least 13 people. This incident is part of a worrying trend of bridge failures in the region.
The Gambhira Bridge, built in 1985, was crucial for connecting Vadodara and Anand. On that fateful morning, a large slab gave way, sending vehicles into the swollen Mahisagar River below. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover victims from the water, with nine people rescued but some in critical condition.
This is not an isolated incident. In June 2025, another bridge over the Patalia River in Botad collapsed due to heavy rainfall. The structure was only three years old. In November 2024, a temporary structure for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project collapsed, resulting in the deaths of three workers.
Similar incidents have occurred throughout Gujarat in recent years. For example, the Bodeli-Chhota Udepur Bridge collapsed in August 2024 after intense rainfall. Just days before, the Chotila Bridge near Surendranagar gave way, cutting off access to several villages. In Morbi, the Halvad Bridge also succumbed to torrential rains.
In Surat, a section of the metro flyover sagged before its inauguration, highlighting ongoing issues with infrastructure safety. Another case involved the Ambedkar Bridge in Mehsana, which partially collapsed in February 2024.
Many of these failures raise questions about maintenance and safety standards. The Gambhira Bridge collapse prompted outrage among locals, who alleged that their requests for repairs were ignored. Government officials defended the maintenance, but residents pointed to the bridge’s dilapidated state.
Public anger has been growing, with calls for a nationwide audit of infrastructure safety. Experts warn that many bridges across India, especially those built in the 1970s and 1980s, are not fit for modern traffic or weather conditions. Without proper inspections and maintenance, these structures remain vulnerable.
The Morbi suspension bridge tragedy in October 2022, which claimed 141 lives, is a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting infrastructure. Despite promises of reform, incidents like the Gambhira collapse suggest that little has changed.
As the government investigates these failures, the focus must shift to ensuring the safety of all public structures. For the families affected by these disasters, the loss is profound. They deserve answers and action to prevent future tragedies.
With the recent string of collapses, it is clear that Gujarat’s infrastructure needs urgent attention. The state cannot afford to let more lives be lost due to negligence. It is time for a serious commitment to safety, maintenance, and modernization of critical infrastructure.
Leave a Reply