Tragedy strikes India — 9 dead, vehicles plunge into river as 45-year-old bridge collapses

A major tragedy struck Vadodara district, Gujarat, in India today morning when the 45-year-old Gambhira bridge over the Mahisagar river in Padra collapsed, sending at least four vehicles — including two trucks and two jeeps — plunging into the river.

Nine people have been confirmed dead, and at least 10 have been rescued alive, while rescue operations are ongoing. The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m., prompting a large-scale emergency response involving local swimmers, boats, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police, and medical teams.

Residents had repeatedly warned of the bridge’s deteriorating condition, alleging that authorities ignored calls for urgent repairs. The bridge, built in 1985, served as a key link between Anand and Vadodara, and its collapse has fueled public outrage and calls for accountability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia for the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the PM National Relief Fund.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also offered ₹4 lakh compensation to the families of the deceased and promised free medical treatment and ₹50,000 aid to the injured.

Local villagers joined the rescue efforts before emergency services arrived. Divers continue to search the river for any missing persons, while an investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway.

The disaster has sparked widespread demands for urgent infrastructure audits to prevent similar tragedies in the future.