On Wednesday morning, a bridge collapsing in the state of Gujarat, India, sent shockwaves through the local community, claiming the lives of at least 15 individuals. Survivors described a moment of chaos, initially mistaking the sudden calamity for an explosion or earthquake. Investigative efforts by state officials are ongoing to determine the specific cause of the structural failure.
Anwarbhai, who was navigating a van across the bridge, experienced the disaster firsthand as he heard a horrifying crack. "There was a huge explosion-like sound and part of the bridge collapsed behind us," he told BBC Gujarati. The bridge, which connected Vadodara district to central Gujarat, was known for its heavy traffic.
Dramatic footage from the scene depicted a truck precariously balancing on the edge of the ravaged structure, while numerous vehicles, including lorries and cars, plunged into the Mahisagar river below. Search and rescue operations are currently underway, with a priority focus on locating four missing individuals. "We aim to quickly check the area for bodies and survivors," stated Surender Singh, an official with the National Disaster Response Force.
Among the survivors is Sonalben Padhiyar, who tragically lost six family members in the disaster. In an emotional recount, she shared her anguish with the Indian Express, detailing how her car fell into the river, while she desperately called for help. Her distressing plea for her son has gone viral, garnering widespread attention and sympathy.
Another survivor, Dilipsinh Padhiyar, was riding home from work when the structure suddenly gave way beneath him. "I felt a vibration before the bridge collapsed," he explained. Although injured, he managed to hold onto a metal rod and was eventually rescued by local fishermen who quickly rushed to the scene.
Eyewitnesses reported that the ground trembled with the impact of the collapse, resembling an earthquake. Local residents immediately joined forces to execute rescue operations, using ropes to pull vehicles from the water. Cyril, a local who rushed to assist, described how the community came together in response to the tragedy.
The collapse has ignited a political controversy, as local residents claim to have repeatedly reported the bridge's deteriorating condition prior to the incident. "It had potholes everywhere," lamented Ravibhai, a local citizen. In contrast, government spokesperson Rushikesh Patel defended the bridge's maintenance, stating it was regularly inspected and repairs were conducted. Recently, plans for a new bridge were approved, with tenders expected to be issued soon.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hailing from Gujarat, has expressed his condolences and pledged compensation for victims' families. This tragedy follows a 2022 incident where a suspension bridge collapse in Morbi resulted in the death of around 135 people, highlighting India's challenges with aging and poorly maintained infrastructure.
