In Vadodara, the Gambhira Bridge has been under scrutiny following a tragic accident. Reports reveal that the bridge underwent repairs costing ₹1.18 crore last year. The Surat-based agency, Dhruvin P. Patel, received the work order for this significant expenditure. Despite the bridge’s deteriorating structure, no recommendations for further improvements were made by the consultancy involved.
The repairs took place in June 2022 and involved work on the bridge’s parapets and resurfacing. The agency completed these tasks by July 2024. Recently, during the monsoon, large potholes appeared on the bridge and approach roads, leading to additional repairs. A site visit by the consultant last year indicated the need for a wearing coat, yet no suggestions regarding the overall structure were provided.
Initially constructed in 1985, the Gambhira Bridge serves as a crucial route from Bharuch district to Saurashtra in central Gujarat. The recent accident on the bridge resulted in a tragic loss of life, with 13 fatalities, including three members from a single family. The victims were involved in a collision that saw two trucks and an auto-rickshaw plunge 18 meters into the river below.
The incident raised alarm over the bridge’s safety, prompting complaints about its condition over the years. Following the accident, the authorities initiated inspections of all bridges in Ahmedabad to ensure public safety. The tragic event highlights the urgency of addressing infrastructure issues across Gujarat, especially for structures as old as the Gambhira Bridge.
The local government must prioritize safety and maintenance to prevent further accidents. Residents and commuters alike are calling for transparency in the repair processes and accountability from the involved agencies. As the state grapples with these challenges, the focus must remain on ensuring the safety of its infrastructure and the well-being of its citizens.
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