Tragic Bridge Collapse in Gujarat Claims Lives and Traps Vehicles

A tragic incident unfolded in Vadodara, Gujarat, when a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed during peak traffic hours, leading to the deaths of three individuals and several vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar River. Eyewitnesses reported a loud cracking sound before the collapse, prompting immediate rescue efforts from local authorities and residents. The bridge, a vital connection between Anand and Vadodara, had faced neglect, raising concerns among locals. As rescue operations continue, the community fears more casualties and calls for a thorough investigation into the bridge's condition.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 9, 2025, 11:59 IST

Bridge Collapse in Vadodara: A Day of Tragedy

Vadodara: A devastating incident occurred on Wednesday when a portion of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Gujarat's Vadodara district collapsed, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and several vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar River.

The bridge, which serves as a crucial link between the Anand and Vadodara districts, gave way during the busy morning rush hour, leading to fatalities and injuries to at least three others.

Initial reports indicate that four vehicles, including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van, were traversing the bridge when it unexpectedly fell apart.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound just before the vehicles fell into the river. Emergency services, including fire brigade teams, local police, and district administration members, quickly arrived at the scene to initiate rescue efforts.

Local residents also participated in the rescue, assisting in pulling the injured from the debris. So far, three individuals have been rescued and transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

Chaitanyasinh Zala, the MLA from Padra, visited the site shortly after the incident to assess the situation.

Authorities have secured the area to avert further accidents and have launched an investigation into the cause of the bridge's collapse.

Community members claim that the bridge, a vital route connecting Central Gujarat to Saurashtra and essential for commuters traveling between Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, and Ankleshwar, had been neglected for an extended period.

One local resident remarked, "The Gambhira bridge has gained a reputation not only as a traffic danger but also as a site for suicides. Numerous warnings regarding its deteriorating condition were disregarded."

Senior Congress leader Amit Chavda took to social media to express concern, stating, "The main Gambhira bridge linking Anand and Vadodara has collapsed. Many vehicles have fallen into the river, and we fear significant casualties. The administration must expedite rescue operations and provide alternative routes for traffic."

Rescue teams continued to search the river for any missing individuals, and cranes were deployed to recover the submerged vehicles.

Further updates are anticipated, and a comprehensive technical assessment and safety audit of similar structures in the area is expected to follow.