A tragic accident occurred in Vadodara, Gujarat, on July 9, 2025, when the Gambhira Bridge collapsed. This old bridge connected Vadodara and Anand over the Mahi River. Early reports indicate that two trucks, two pickups, and a rickshaw fell into the river during the collapse. Sadly, nine people lost their lives in this disaster, and six others suffered serious injuries.
The Gambhira Bridge was 45 years old and had been in use since its completion in 1985. It was a vital route for traffic between central Gujarat and Saurashtra. The bridge’s sudden failure has raised concerns about the maintenance and safety of aging infrastructure in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident on social media. He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and announced a financial aid of ₹2 lakh for each family affected by the tragedy. Additionally, those injured will receive ₹50,000 in support.
The accident happened in the early hours of Wednesday. Witnesses reported that many vehicles were on the bridge when it collapsed. Rescue operations began immediately, with local authorities and police rushing to the scene. So far, eight people have been rescued from the river, and efforts continue to search for any others who may have been trapped.
Local villagers and onlookers gathered at the site, expressing their shock and grief. Some were seen trying to help rescue those trapped in the vehicles. Reports indicate that a woman was seen saving her child from the falling bridge, highlighting the bravery of individuals during this tragic event.
Local leaders and officials, including MP Mitesh Patel, visited the site to assess the situation and oversee rescue operations. They expressed their commitment to ensuring that such incidents do not happen again. The bridge’s collapse has sparked criticism regarding the government’s responsibility for maintaining public infrastructure.
The bridge had shown signs of deterioration, and there were previous calls for its replacement. However, despite the warnings, no action was taken to close it for repairs. Locals have accused the ruling government of negligence and poor maintenance, which may have contributed to this disaster.
As investigations into the collapse begin, the focus will be on understanding what went wrong. The bridge’s failure has raised questions about safety protocols and the condition of similar structures across the state. The local government is under pressure to ensure that all bridges and public infrastructure are thoroughly inspected and maintained to prevent future tragedies.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks for public infrastructure. The loss of life and injuries are a tragedy that resonates deeply within the community and beyond. As families mourn their loved ones, the hope is that measures will be taken to ensure that such a disaster does not repeat in the future.
Leave a Reply