On a tragic Sunday afternoon, approximately at 3:30 PM, in Pune's Mawal Tehsil, an iron bridge over the Indrayani River, aged 30 years, suddenly collapsed amid torrential rain and rapid currents. Those on the bridge were swept away. This catastrophe claimed the lives of 4 individuals, while 51 people sustained injuries. The injured were rushed to Pavana Hospital, Meemer Hospital, Atharva Hospital, and Unique Hospital. Unfortunately, two succumbed during treatment, and two bodies were discovered under the collapsed bridge.
Reports indicate that the bridge was in disrepair for a while, halting vehicle passage. However, curious onlookers, braving the rain, gathered on the bridge to view the river's powerful flow, when the disaster struck unexpectedly.
Senior Inspector Pradeep Raynwar from Talegaon Dabhade Police Station revealed that one person may still be trapped in the rubble, and rescue operations are ongoing. The incident occurred during heavy rain, which amplified the river's flow. Around 100 to 125 tourists were present on and around the bridge for a picnic, although it was not raining at the time of the accident.
CM Fadnavis as Mourner
Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed profound sorrow over the collapse of the Indrayani River bridge. Through social media, he labeled the incident as incredibly unfortunate, offering heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families. The CM announced that the state government will provide 5 lakh rupees in financial aid to the families of the deceased from Pune's Talegaon bridge collapse. Furthermore, the state will cover the medical expenses for the injured.
Source: aajtak
'Accountability Will Be Enforced'
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar declared that an investigation would ensue, and those accountable will face consequences. Punitive measures will target those responsible. The state's Deputy CM, Eknath Shinde, instructed Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik to conduct structural audits of all old bridges within the state.
Source: aajtak
Supriya Sule Visits the Scene
Subsequently, NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule arrived at the incident scene. She emphasized efforts by hospitals and medical teams to reassure all affected families. Prayers and dedicated service are ongoing, with the (state) government preparing to issue an official statement.
NDRF and Rescue Teams in Action
Immediately, two teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigade, local police, and volunteers like disaster friends were deployed for rescue and relief operations.
Source: aajtak
Was Overcrowding the Culprit?
According to PTI, Maharashtra's Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, who supervised the rescue efforts on-site, stated that the bridge catered solely to pedestrians. Although a warning board forbade two-wheeler and excessive pedestrian traffic, tourists ignored these advisories, leading to the bridge's overload and eventual collapse.
Police Deployment Under Scrutiny
Girish Mahajan affirmed an extensive inquiry into the entire matter. He highlighted recurring warnings during monsoon seasons, urging the public to avoid hazardous locations that endanger lives. We appeal to tourists to refrain from such negligence. Efforts continue to remove the bridge debris with cranes and to rescue those trapped.
