Gujarat’s Vadodara Bridge Collapse: Death Toll Reaches 17; Search for Missing Continues

The aftermath of the Gambhira bridge collapse in Vadodara district, Gujarat, continues to unfold, with the death toll rising to 17. Rescue operations in the Mahisagar river are ongoing as two people remain missing. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has initiated a high-level probe into the bridge’s collapse. A team of specialists is tasked with a detailed investigation, examining all aspects of the bridge’s construction, maintenance, and quality control procedures. The disaster struck on Wednesday when a portion of the bridge, a key link between Anand and Vadodara via Padra, unexpectedly gave way, causing multiple vehicles to plunge into the river. Four officials have been suspended in connection with the incident. The state government has declared Rs 4 lakh in compensation for the families of the deceased, along with Rs 50,000 for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed sorrow and pledged Rs 2 lakh from the PM National Relief Fund to the families who lost loved ones.