The collapse of a 39-year-old bridge over the Mahi River near Vadodara, Gujarat, on July 9, 2025, has resulted in at least 20 fatalities. A preliminary government investigation attributes the incident to structural failure involving crushed pedestal and articulation joints.
The Gambhira Bridge, connecting Gambhira and Mujpur villages, collapsed around 7:30 AM while several vehicles were in transit. Six vehicles, including trucks, a pickup van, and an auto-rickshaw, plunged over 50 feet into the riverbed as a central span of the bridge gave way.
Initial rescue operations were led by local residents and fire brigade teams, later joined by the National and State Disaster Response Forces. All submerged vehicles were recovered by the evening, and bodies continued to be pulled from the debris over the next two days. One person died in hospital, bringing the confirmed death toll to 20. Several others sustained serious injuries and are undergoing treatment.
Gujarat government officials stated that the likely cause of the collapse was the crushing of the pedestal and articulation joints—critical components supporting the bridge structure. The bridge, built in 1985, had shown signs of deterioration in recent years, and earlier warnings about its condition were reportedly not acted upon.
In response, the state government suspended four engineers from the Roads and Buildings Department for negligence. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has ordered a high-level technical investigation, with a report due within 30 days. A formal case of accidental death has been registered.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The Chief Minister has directed authorities to inspect similar bridges across the state and initiate safety measures where necessary.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud cracking sounds moments before the collapse, and some survivors noted frequent potholes and vibrations on the bridge in recent months. The incident has raised serious concerns about the condition and monitoring of aging infrastructure in Gujarat.
As rescue operations conclude and investigations continue, the Vadodara bridge collapse underscores urgent infrastructure challenges. The government’s inquiry is expected to shape future safety protocols and accountability standards in the state’s public works.
