At least nine people were killed after a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Padra taluka of Gujarat`s Vadodara district collapsed on Wednesday, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River.
The tragic incident occurred during peak morning traffic as four vehicles — including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van — were crossing the bridge, which connects the Anand and Vadodara districts. A sudden collapse of a segment of the bridge caused the vehicles to fall into the river below.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound moments before the collapse. Rescue efforts were swiftly launched by fire brigade teams, local police, and the district administration, with assistance from local residents. So far, three injured individuals have been rescued and hospitalized.
The area has been cordoned off to ensure safety and prevent further accidents. Authorities have begun an investigation to determine the cause of the structural failure.
Residents of the area had previously raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which is a vital transportation link between Central Gujarat and the Saurashtra region. It also serves commuters from key towns including Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, and Ankleshwar.
Local accounts suggest that repeated warnings about the bridge`s weakening state were overlooked. The site had also reportedly become known for incidents beyond traffic issues, including suicides.
Search operations continue for any missing persons, and cranes have been deployed to retrieve submerged vehicles from the river.
