11 killed as vehicles fall in Mahisagar river after Gambhira bridge collapses in Gujarat

Ahmedabad | New Delhi: At least 11 people were killed and several injured after the Gambhira bridge over the Mahisagar river in Gujarat's Vadodara district collapsed on Wednesday morning as several vehicles fell into the river.

While the administration has so far rescued six people, the toll is likely to rise. Speaking to ET, Rohan Anand, Superintendent of Police, Vadodara Rural, said around five vehicles are still submerged in the water and rescue operations are still on. "There could be a few more people under water and once the vehicles are pulled out, we can get to a final body count number," he said.

The SP said the 10-15 metre long slab of the bridge came crashing down at around 7.30 am.


Teams from the Vadodara fire department and locals joined the rescue operation, an official said.

The nearly 900-metre-long Gambhira bridge has 23 piers and connects Vadodara and Anand districts of Gujarat. It was inaugurated in 1985. Being a toll free road, it experienced heavy traffic compared to other roads.

COMPENSATION

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy and announced ₹2 lakh ex gratia to the next of kin of each deceased ₹50,000 for the injured from the PMNRF. The Prime Minister also spoke to the Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel and inquired about the treatment of those injured in the incident.

Union home minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over the bridge collapse incident and offered his condolences to the families of victims. Taking to X, Shah assured that the NDRF team had begun rescue and relief work at the accident site. "The accident that occurred in Vadodara district of Gujarat is very tragic. The NDRF team has reached the accident site and is engaged in relief and rescue operations, and all possible assistance is being provided to the victims. My condolences are with those who have lost their loved ones in this accident. I pray to God for the speedy recovery of the injured," Shah said.

Patel expressed grief over the tragedy and said an inquiry has been ordered into the incident.

Gujarat minister Rushikesh Patel said maintenance was carried out as and when required.

CONGRESS blames govt officials

Congress leader Amit Chavda alleged that several representations were made to the government about the dilapidated situation of the bridge. Terming the accident a result of "criminal negligence", he held government officials responsible for the collapse.