Gujarat Bridge Collapse: 9 Dead as Vehicles Fall into River

A large tanker truck precariously stuck on a section of a collapsed bridge over a river, with people standing on the intact part and debris visible in the water. The text "Gujarat Bridge Collapse - July 2025" is overlaid.

Written and reviewed by the Pulsewire National News Desk – bringing verified reports with context that matters.

Tragedy struck Gujarat on Tuesday morning when a portion of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed over the Mahisagar River, causing several vehicles to plunge into the water below. At least 9 people have died so far, with multiple others injured or missing.

🔴 What Happened?

The bridge, which connects Anand and Vadodara districts, suddenly gave way during morning traffic hours. Witnesses reported a loud noise as the middle section caved in, sending cars, trucks, and a minivan crashing into the river.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, including fire brigades, police teams, and NDRF units. Rescue boats were deployed, and cranes were brought in to lift submerged vehicles.

🆘 Rescue Operations & Casualties

✅ 9 confirmed dead (as per initial reports from NDTV and local authorities)
🚑 6 rescued, 3 in critical condition at local hospitals
🔎 Several others still unaccounted for; divers and rescue dogs deployed

⚠️ What Caused the Collapse?

The bridge, reportedly built over 40 years ago, had been flagged by locals for structural concerns. Heavy rainfall in recent weeks may have weakened its foundation. However, no preventive maintenance work had been undertaken recently.

Engineers from the Gujarat Public Works Department and NHAI have been deployed to assess the structural remains.

👨‍⚖️ Government Response

🗣️ Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed grief and announced an ex gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh for families of the deceased.
📄 A high-level probe has been ordered to investigate causes and accountability.
🛠️ Audits for 100+ old bridges across the state have been ordered for immediate inspection.

📍 Location Details

The collapse occurred near Mujpur village, affecting one of the busiest rural connectors between Vadodara and Anand in central Gujarat. The route is frequented by daily commuters, small transport vehicles, and local buses.

🌐 Public Reactions

Citizens and activists have voiced anger over ignored warnings. Many have drawn parallels to the 2022 Morbi bridge disaster, demanding greater accountability in public infrastructure maintenance.

“We raised concerns months ago. The structure had visible cracks. Yet no one from the administration inspected it,” — said a local resident.

📢 Conclusion

The Gujarat bridge collapse is another stark reminder of India’s aging infrastructure crisis. While rescue efforts continue, questions over maintenance neglect and administrative oversight remain front and center. This developing story will be updated as more details emerge.