What Caused the Pune Bridge Collapse? Four Lives Lost and 51 Injured.
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Synopsis
A tragic incident unfolded in Pune, resulting in four fatalities and 51 injuries after a 33-year-old iron bridge collapsed. The Maharashtra government has announced financial aid for the victims' families while the rescue efforts continue. What safety measures will be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future?
Key Takeaways
- The Pune bridge collapse resulted in four deaths and 51 injuries.
- The Maharashtra government has pledged compensation for the victims' families.
- Rescue operations were complicated by continuous rains.
- Officials had previously warned against using the aging bridge.
- Plans for a new bridge are underway, with construction costs estimated at Rs 8 crore.
Pune, June 16 (NationPress) The Pune district administration has reported in its initial findings to the Maharashtra government that four individuals have lost their lives and 51 others are injured following the collapse of a 33-year-old iron bridge, which connected nearby villages over the Indrayani River, on Sunday.
The tragic event occurred around 3:30 p.m. when approximately 125 tourists had gathered at Kundmala in Maval tehsil, Pune district, for a monsoon outing.
Among the deceased, three individuals have been identified, while one remains unnamed.
The injured individuals are currently receiving medical care in various hospitals.
A total of 55 people have been rescued, with four confirmed fatalities.
The names of the identified deceased are Chandrakant Sathale, Rohit Mane, and Vihan Mane, while one individual is still unidentified.
Rescue and relief operations, which were halted due to continuous rainfall, resumed on Monday morning.
The Maharashtra Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan oversaw the relief operations alongside local authorities, supported by two teams from the NDRF, Pimpri-Chinchwad police, CRPF personnel, and various social and non-government organizations.
Minister Mahajan visited the Talegaon General Hospital, where he inquired about the health of the injured.
He stated, “The government will provide Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased, and all medical expenses for the injured will be covered by the government.”
He urged tourists to exercise caution when visiting tourist spots and to refrain from engaging in adventure tourism or reckless behavior.
The State Minister for Rehabilitation, Makarand Patil, along with Maval legislator Sunil Shelke, visited the site and remarked, “The bridge, constructed over 30 years ago by the Pune Zilla Parishad, had warning signs displayed at both ends advising against its use. Despite this, it was utilized by some individuals seeking enjoyment on a rainy day. It is unfortunate that this incident occurred. The administration continues its rescue and relief efforts. Minister Mahajan has already announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each of the deceased’s families.”
According to the Pune district administration, work on the Kundamala bridge commenced in 1990 and it was opened to the public in 1993.
However, in 2023, the administration deemed the bridge to be in a dilapidated condition after nearly 30 years of use and prohibited further access.
Plans are underway for a new bridge to be constructed at a cost of Rs 8 crore.
The Public Works Department has issued a tender and a work order, with construction expected to commence post-monsoon.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the urgency of improving infrastructure safety measures in Maharashtra. Incidents like the Pune bridge collapse illustrate a critical need for the government to reassess aging structures and prioritize public safety. The tragic loss of life serves as a wake-up call for both authorities and citizens alike.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were affected by the Pune bridge collapse?
The collapse resulted in four fatalities and 51 injuries.
What compensation is being provided to the victims' families?
The Maharashtra government has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the relatives of each deceased victim.
What safety measures are being discussed after the incident?
The government is expected to assess the safety of aging infrastructure and implement stricter regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
Where are the injured individuals receiving treatment?
The injured are being treated in various hospitals, including Talegaon General Hospital.
What is the history of the Kundamala bridge?
The bridge was constructed in 1993 and was deemed in a dilapidated condition in 2023, leading to warnings against its use.
