Tragic Bridge Collapse in Vadodara: 15 Confirmed Dead, Search for Missing Continues
Overview of the Incident
Vadodara: Following the catastrophic collapse of a bridge on July 9, which caused several vehicles to plunge into the river, officials have confirmed that 15 individuals have tragically lost their lives, with efforts ongoing to locate at least three others who remain missing.
Rescue operations are being conducted around the clock by teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), alongside local agencies.
So far, more than eight people have been successfully rescued.
On Wednesday morning, District Collector Dr. Anil Dhameliya provided updates to the media from the site of the disaster.
"The NDRF and SDRF are conducting thorough search operations along a 4-kilometre stretch downstream. This morning, three additional bodies were recovered, raising the death toll to 15, while three individuals are still unaccounted for. The local community's support has been invaluable," he stated.
Dr. Dhameliya also mentioned that two vehicles, including a car and an Eicher tempo, are still missing, with the latter stuck in thick mud, complicating recovery efforts.
"We encourage the public to report any information regarding missing persons. Every piece of information aids our teams on the ground," he added.
Among the vehicles involved, an empty chemical tanker is precariously positioned on the remnants of the bridge. "Moving the tanker without adequate support could lead to it falling. Our teams are working to stabilize it while rescue operations continue below," the District Collector explained.
In the meantime, the Padra Police have initiated a case of accidental death following a complaint from local resident Arjunsinh Madhavsinh Padhiar. Officials have stated that a comprehensive investigation will commence once the rescue operations are concluded.
Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) teams are on standby to gather structural evidence from the site of the collapse. They will also record statements from survivors and victims' families to aid the investigation.
Environmental concerns have arisen due to reports that one of the submerged vehicles was transporting chemicals.
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) has conducted an inspection at the site, and emergency measures are being implemented to prevent any potential contamination of the river. Authorities are considering demolishing parts of the remaining structure if it is deemed unsafe.
The Gambhira Bridge, which has been in existence for over 40 years, has reportedly exhibited signs of structural decline in recent years, with local residents frequently voicing safety concerns.
Despite these warnings, the bridge remained a crucial route for both heavy and light vehicles, linking rural areas of Vadodara district to important trade and transport routes in Saurashtra.
Recent monsoon rains have intensified, possibly exacerbating the bridge's already compromised foundation.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking noise just before the collapse, indicating structural failure due to prolonged neglect and inadequate maintenance.
Local residents and activists had previously submitted requests for a safety audit of the bridge, but no significant action was taken.