What Caused the Bridge Collapse in Pune, Resulting in Tragedy?
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Synopsis
A devastating bridge collapse in Pune has resulted in fatalities and injuries, prompting extensive rescue operations. With heavy rains exacerbating the situation, authorities are mobilizing resources to assist victims and their families. This incident raises urgent questions about infrastructure safety and emergency response in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Two individuals have died due to the bridge collapse.
- 32 people are injured, with several in critical condition.
- 41 individuals were rescued from the river.
- The state government is providing financial aid to victims' families.
- Heavy rainfall contributed to the incident by causing river overflow.
Pune, June 15 (NationPress) Tragically, at least two individuals lost their lives and 32 others sustained injuries after an old bridge collapsed in Maharashtra's Pune district, leading to a total of 41 people being rescued from the overflowing river they fell into on Sunday.
The bridge, which spanned the Indrayani River at Kundamala in Pune's Maval taluka, collapsed unexpectedly, causing numerous individuals to plunge into the raging waters.
Footage from the scene depicted segments of the bridge, primarily those directly over the river, crumbled and submerged, while rescue teams from various agencies tirelessly worked to locate and save the victims.
A crane was deployed to assist with the removal of debris from the collapsed structure as rescue efforts continued.
"...The bridge gave way while individuals were crossing it. Approximately 20–25 people were on the bridge at that moment. Currently, two bodies have been recovered, and the search operation is ongoing. Family members of the victims and onlookers have gathered at the site..." a rescue worker informed IANS.
One eyewitness, who found himself trapped on the bridge, shared with IANS that the structure "was already swaying, yet people continued to walk on it. There were about 40 to 50 individuals..."
Vikas Nikam, a relative of Amol Ghule who was injured in the incident, stated to IANS: "He was heading to the hospital when the bridge collapsed beneath him. The structure was so frail that it gave way. He was on his way to obtain his wife’s MRI report but met with this unfortunate accident..."
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that initial reports suggest two fatalities.
"I am profoundly saddened to learn of the tragedy that struck when a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed in Indori, near Talegaon in Pune district. Preliminary information indicates that two individuals have perished in this incident. I extend my heartfelt condolences to their families. I remain in constant contact with the Divisional Commissioner, District Collector, Superintendent of Police, and the relevant Tehsildar regarding this incident. As some individuals have been swept away, a search is being conducted with utmost urgency. NDRF has been deployed to the scene. Relief efforts have been expedited immediately. Six people have been rescued thus far. All agencies have been instructed to remain on high alert. Thirty-two individuals were injured, six of whom are in critical condition and have been admitted to the hospital for treatment. The Divisional Commissioner has personally gone to the site," Fadnavis stated in a post on X in Marathi.
The CM also announced that the state government would provide financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased and cover the medical expenses of the injured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently in Cyprus as part of his three-nation tour, held a phone call with the Chief Minister to discuss the incident, as reported by the Maharashtra CMO.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also reached out to Fadnavis.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic event of the bridge collapse on the Indrayani River in Talegaon, Pune. I spoke with Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis to inquire about the current situation on the ground. NDRF teams positioned nearby promptly rushed to the site, joined the rescue operation, and saved many lives with exceptional speed. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured," he posted on X.
Meanwhile, Minister Girish Mahajan visited the accident site to assess the situation. Baramati's NCP-SP MP Supriya Sule also made a visit to the location.
The elevated water levels, resulting from heavy rainfall in the area, worsened the tragedy. Maval has experienced substantial rainfall over the past two days, causing the Indrayani River to swell.
Police, fire brigade, and NDRF teams hurried to the site to initiate rescue operations.
Kundmala is a well-known tourist spot that attracts a significant number of visitors during the monsoon season. The foot traffic was particularly high, given that it was a Sunday.
Point of View
We acknowledge the gravity of the bridge collapse in Pune. This incident underscores the critical importance of infrastructure safety and the need for timely interventions to prevent such tragedies in the future. Our focus remains on delivering accurate information and supporting affected families during this challenging time.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were affected by the bridge collapse in Pune?
At least two people lost their lives, 32 were injured, and 41 individuals were rescued.
What caused the bridge collapse?
The bridge collapsed due to structural weakness, exacerbated by heavy rainfall that caused the Indrayani River to overflow.
What assistance is the government offering to the victims' families?
The state government announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives and will cover medical expenses for the injured.
What agencies are involved in the rescue operations?
Rescue operations are being conducted by the NDRF, police, and local fire brigade teams.
Where did the bridge collapse occur?
The bridge collapsed over the Indrayani River at Kundamala in Pune's Maval taluka.
