Padra-Anand bridge collapse in Gujarat: 9 dead

A serious accident occurred in Vadodara district of Gujarat on Wednesday morning when a part of the bridge connecting Anand and Padra in Padra taluka collapsed into the Mahisagar river. So far 9 people have been confirmed dead in this accident.

According to preliminary information, four vehicles – two trucks, a Bolero SUV and a pickup van – were passing on the bridge at the time of the accident, which fell into the river due to the sudden collapse. According to eyewitnesses, a loud noise was heard before the vehicles fell.

Acting immediately, the local fire brigade, police and Vadodara district administration launched a rescue operation. With the help of local citizens, the injured were pulled out of the debris and shifted to nearby hospitals, in which three people could be saved.

Secretary of Gujarat Road and Building Department P.R. Patelia said in a conversation with the media, “As soon as the information about the bridge being damaged was received, a team of experts was sent to the site.” According to local residents, the administration was informed about the pathetic condition of this bridge several times in the past, but no action was taken.

It is noteworthy that this bridge was constructed in 1985. Gujarat government had recently approved the construction of a new bridge at an estimated cost of Rs 212 crore. The Chief Minister has issued orders for a detailed investigation by sending technical experts to the site of the incident.

Rescue operations are underway at the accident site and the situation is being constantly monitored by authorities.