Prime Highlights

• Part of the four-decade-old Gambhira Bridge in Gujarat has collapsed, and 13 have lost their lives.
• Six trucks and two-wheelers fell into the Mahisagar River during early morning rush hours.

Key Facts

• The bridge existed between Mujpur and Gambhira villages near Vadodara and was a Local’s congested route.
• The mishap prompted instant rescue efforts by NDRF, fire fighters, police, and locals.

Key Background

July 9 was the day tragedy struck Vadodara area of Gujarat as part of the 40-year-old Gambhira Bridge collapsed, drowning six cars into the Mahisagar River. Two trucks, a Bolero Sports Utility Vehicle, two motorbikes, and a pick-up van were among the vehicles that fell into the river. A minimum of 13 were reported dead while their hundreds of others were injured and admitted to hospitals in the surrounding area. This occurred when rush hour was at its peak, and thus the tragedy was even more extensive.

Eyewitnesses reported that they heard a crackling sound, and in no time the bridge slab gave way, sending cars from under the bridge into the river with a plummet of about 50 feet. Fishermen and spectators dove into the water right away, pulled victims out from under submerged cars before rescue teams could reach the location. Police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and fire brigades made frantic rescues throughout the day. The authorities also deployed divers to search for missing individuals.

Gambhira Bridge was built in 1985 and was out of action for several years. The local authority had complained that it was unsafe and the work was demanded to be repaired or rebuilt, but nothing was ever actually completed. Dastardly cracks had previously been observed, and a second survey was supposedly being carried out when the accident happened.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ordered a technical investigation into the crash. A detailed report from the Roads and Buildings Department was assured to be followed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu tweeted condolences and ex-gratia relief for victim families.

This horrific mishap once again brought to light the imperative of regular inspection of structural condition and prompt repair of public infrastructure. Against increasing questions of negligence and inactivity, the responsibility now vests in ensuring how future catastrophes can be averted with rigorous safety procedures and better infrastructure planning.