A tragic incident unfolded near Pune on Sunday afternoon when a bridge over a river collapsed, leaving several tourists feared drowned. The area, known for its popularity among visitors, was heavily crowded at the time of the disaster.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that two people have died, and 38 individuals have been rescued so far. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have reached the site and are leading an intensive rescue operation.
However, it was local residents and police who initiated rescue efforts immediately after the collapse, before official teams arrived.
According to reports, residents had earlier voiced concerns about the structural integrity of the bridge, but those warnings went largely unheeded—especially by tourists, many of whom were unaware of the potential risk.
Officials believe that the strong water current, intensified by recent flooding, may have played a significant role in the collapse.
Rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities search for those still missing.
