Nine dead after bridge collapses in Gujarat, Vehicles plunge into Mahi river

July 9, 2025 by News Desk

At least nine people lost their lives and several others were injured after a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed in Padra taluka of Gujarat’s Vadodara district on Wednesday morning.

The collapse sent multiple vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River below.

The incident occurred during peak traffic hours and involved four vehicles—two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van—that were on the bridge when it gave way. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound just moments before the vehicles fell into the river.

Emergency response teams, including the fire brigade, local police, and district officials, rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations.

Locals also joined the effort, pulling injured survivors from the wreckage. So far, three people have been rescued and admitted to nearby hospitals.

The bridge, a critical link between Anand and Vadodara districts, is widely used by commuters and commercial traffic moving between Central Gujarat and Saurashtra, including key hubs like Bharuch and Ankleshwar. Authorities have cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation into the cause of the collapse.

Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the site soon after the incident, while search operations continued in the river. Cranes were deployed to retrieve the submerged vehicles, and drivers were seen scanning the waters for any missing persons.

Locals have blamed official apathy for the tragedy, alleging that repeated warnings about the deteriorating condition of the Gambhira bridge were ignored.

“This bridge has long been a danger—for commuters and even as a known suicide spot. Nothing was ever done,” a resident told reporters.

Reacting to the incident, senior Congress leader Amit Chavda posted on social media: “The main Gambhira bridge connecting Anand and Vadodara has collapsed. Several vehicles have fallen into the river, and major casualties are feared. Immediate rescue and traffic diversions are needed.”

Following the tragedy, officials are expected to carry out a comprehensive technical inspection and safety audit of similar bridges and structures across the region.

More updates are awaited.