Bridge Collapse in Gujarat Kills 9 Amid Heavy Rainfall and Infrastructure Concerns
Aging bridge in Vadodara fails during storm, plunging vehicles into river below
A tragic bridge collapse in Gujarat’s Vadodara district has left at least nine people dead and others injured, highlighting India’s ongoing infrastructure challenges amid extreme weather conditions. The incident occurred on Wednesday when a section of a bridge, built in 1985, gave way during heavy rainfall, sending multiple vehicles into the river below.
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Vehicles Plunge into River as Bridge Collapses
According to reports from PTI, multiple vehicles were on the bridge when the section collapsed, resulting in several falling into the river. Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel confirmed that five individuals were rescued, while search efforts continue for others who may be trapped.
Rescue Operations Underway
Vadodara Collector Anil Dhameliya stated that teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, municipal authorities, and trained swimmers were immediately deployed. He added that identification of victims remains ongoing due to the chaotic conditions.
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Prime Minister Modi Responds
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences, calling the incident “deeply saddening”. The collapse is being seen as a reminder of India’s recurring structural failures, particularly in regions impacted by monsoon-related flooding.
Historical Context: A Pattern of Infrastructure Failures
India has suffered numerous infrastructure disasters in recent years. In 2022, a suspension bridge in Morbi, Gujarat, collapsed, killing at least 132 people, making it one of the deadliest such incidents in Indian history.
Expert Warnings and Accountability Demands
Experts have long warned about the deteriorating condition of old bridges, especially those built decades ago without modern safety standards. With climate change contributing to more frequent and intense rainfall, calls for urgent infrastructure audits are growing louder.
