Why was the bridge declared unsafe still standing? Accountability must be fixed: Cong slams Maha govt over Pune tragedy
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Synopsis
The Congress party has launched a fierce attack on the Maharashtra government following the catastrophic bridge collapse in Pune, highlighting a serious lack of accountability and negligence. What are the implications for safety standards in infrastructure? The party demands immediate action to prevent future tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- Accountability is crucial after a tragedy.
- The Pune bridge was declared unsafe before the incident.
- Urgent government action is needed to ensure safety.
- The impact of monsoon on infrastructure must be considered.
- Public safety warnings are essential to prevent future disasters.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) The Congress party has sharply criticized the BJP-led Maharashtra government following the devastating bridge collapse in Pune’s Maval tehsil, alleging criminal negligence and a failure to heed known safety warnings.
Senior Congress figure Pramod Tiwari remarked, “This bridge had exceeded its lifespan, was declared defunct, and a tender for its demolition had already been issued. So why was it still standing? Who is responsible for this blatant negligence?”
He further expressed concern, stating, “It is even more troubling to see BJP ministers and local leaders offering empty condolences rather than accepting accountability. When a bridge fell in Bengal, the Prime Minister suggested that the Mamata government was on the verge of collapse. What will he say now, with this tragedy occurring under a BJP-led government?”
Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat also called on the central government to assume full responsibility and issue nationwide safety directives. “Whether it’s a helicopter crash in Kedarnath or a bridge collapse in Pune, safety standards must always be prioritized. The government must direct all states to inspect vulnerable infrastructure, especially in areas impacted by monsoon rains, and issue public safety warnings wherever needed. This is not just a moral obligation but a legal duty to avert such calamities.”
The bridge collapse in Pune occurred around 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, when around 125 individuals had gathered at Kundmala, a picturesque monsoon hotspot in Pune district. According to the NDRF, 55 individuals were rescued, but four tragically lost their lives. Three of the deceased have been identified, while one body remains unclaimed.
The Pune district administration confirmed that the bridge was constructed in 1990 and opened to the public in 1993. In 2023, it was officially deemed unsafe due to structural degradation after nearly three decades of use, and public access was restricted. Despite this, no physical barriers or demolition efforts were implemented.
A new project for an Rs 8 crore bridge was approved and tendered, but construction was slated to commence post-monsoon.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this tragedy with a focus on accountability and safety. The collapse of the bridge in Pune raises significant concerns about infrastructure management in India. The call for government action and the need for stringent safety regulations must be addressed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Pune bridge collapse?
The bridge was declared unsafe in 2023 due to structural degradation, yet it remained standing, leading to accusations of negligence against the Maharashtra government.
How many casualties were there in the incident?
Four individuals lost their lives in the Pune bridge collapse, while 55 others were rescued.
What actions are being called for by the Congress party?
The Congress party is urging the government to take accountability, issue nationwide safety directives, and inspect vulnerable structures.
When was the Pune bridge originally built?
The bridge was constructed in 1990 and opened in 1993.
What future plans are there for the bridge site?
A new bridge project worth Rs 8 crore has been sanctioned, with construction expected to start after the monsoon season.
