Gujarat Bridge Collapse: 43-Year-Old Bridge in Vadodara District Collapses, At Least 9 Dead, Several Injured

Vadodara, Gujarat | July 9, 2025 – A tragic incident struck Gujarat’s Vadodara district early Wednesday morning when a 43-year-old bridge collapsed, resulting in the deaths of at least 9 people and leaving several others critically injured. The disaster occurred around 5:15 am when the bridge, located near Waghodia taluka, gave way suddenly while vehicles and pedestrians were crossing.

Rescue Operations Underway

Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities, swiftly launched search and rescue operations. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as vehicles plunged into the river below, and survivors cried for help.

District Collector A. B. Gor confirmed the fatalities and ongoing efforts to recover trapped individuals. Injured persons were rushed to the Vadodara Civil Hospital and nearby medical centers.

Location and Background of the Bridge

The collapsed bridge was built in 1982 and connected several villages in Waghodia taluka with Vadodara city. According to local residents, the bridge had been in poor condition for years, with visible cracks and rusted supports, but had remained operational without major repairs.

Government Response and Inquiry Ordered

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed his condolences and announced compensation for the victims’ families:

“Deeply saddened by the Vadodara bridge collapse. Rescue efforts are ongoing. Prayers for the departed souls and speedy recovery of the injured.”

The Gujarat government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident to investigate possible lapses in maintenance and safety inspections. Initial assessments suggest that structural fatigue and lack of timely repairs may have contributed to the collapse.

Past Infrastructure Concerns in Gujarat

This tragedy brings back painful memories of previous infrastructure disasters in Gujarat, including the Morbi bridge collapse in 2022, which claimed over 130 lives. Following that incident, several old bridges across the state were flagged for urgent inspection, but critics claim little progress has been made on safety upgrades.

Public Outrage and Safety Concerns

Local communities have voiced anger at the administration for failing to act despite repeated complaints about the bridge’s deteriorating condition. Civic groups have demanded a statewide audit of old bridges and public infrastructure to prevent similar tragedies.

Latest Updates:

• Death toll: 9 confirmed, expected to rise.

• Injured: 15+ hospitalized.

• Search efforts: Ongoing, divers and drones deployed.

• Investigation: High-level technical inquiry underway.

• Traffic advisory: Alternate routes activated; the collapsed site cordoned off.