Pimpri Chinchwad: A tragic accident struck near the Kundmala tourist spot in Talegoan Dabhade, located in Pune’s Maval region, on Sunday afternoon when an iron bridge spanning the Indrayani River unexpectedly gave way. The sudden collapse caused more than 50 tourists to be swept away by the river’s strong currents. Rescue teams have successfully saved 38 individuals from the disaster site, while two people are feared to have lost their lives.
Emergency response units including local police, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Shivdurga Rescue Team, and the Fire Brigade promptly arrived to carry out rescue efforts. Official statements confirm that 32 people suffered injuries, with six critically hurt and currently receiving hospital care.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his sorrow over the incident on Twitter, stating: “The accident at the Indrayani River in Pune district is deeply saddening. Initial reports indicate two fatalities. My heartfelt condolences to the families affected. I am in continuous contact with district officials and authorities overseeing rescue operations. All necessary resources and personnel have been mobilized to assist.”
Sushma Andhare from Shiv Sena (UBT), attributing the collapse not to natural causes but to long-term neglect by authorities. Local residents say the bridge had been visibly deteriorating and had not undergone any structural inspection or maintenance ahead of the monsoon season. Experts emphasize that routine safety checks and prompt repairs are essential for aging infrastructure, especially bridges over rivers, to avoid such tragedies.
Residents of Kundmala have been demanding a new bridge for years, but their appeals to local government officials and representatives were reportedly ignored, compelling them to continue using the unsafe and crumbling structure.
Many view the disaster as the result of administrative lapses rather than unavoidable circumstances. Locals have openly criticized the government for disregarding repeated warnings and postponing necessary interventions.
The collapse has heightened alarm about the condition of old bridges across Maharashtra. Engineers and safety experts are calling for immediate structural audits and urgent restoration work to prevent future incidents.
