Survivors Share Harrowing Accounts of Bridge Collapse in Gujarat, India

A devastating bridge collapse in Gujarat, India, left 15 people dead and many more injured. Survivors reported a terrifying experience, fearing they were caught in an explosion or earthquake. With investigations ongoing, locals voice concerns about the bridge's maintenance, while the government affirms regular inspections.

Survivors of a tragic bridge collapse in Gujarat, India, are sharing their harrowing stories following an incident that resulted in at least 15 fatalities. Witnesses have described hearing what they thought was an explosion or earthquake as the structure gave way on Wednesday morning. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation as state officials work to determine the circumstances surrounding the disaster.

Anwarbhai, who was operating a van on the bridge with two passengers, reported hearing a deafening crack just before a section fell into the Mahisagar river, dragging vehicles with it. "There was a huge explosion-like sound, and part of the bridge collapsed behind us. Our van also started rolling backwards so we quickly jumped out," he recounted.

The bridge, which connected Vadodara district with central Gujarat, regularly experienced heavy traffic. Graphic images from the scene depicted a truck precariously positioned at the edge of the broken bridge, later moved to safety. Other vehicles, including lorries, cars, and tuktuks, plunged into the river's depths, with search operations still ongoing for at least four missing individuals.

Sonalben Padhiyar tragically lost six family members when her car fell into the water. She spoke to local media, describing the terrifying moments as she and her family plummeted headfirst into the river. "I was sitting in the back when the car fell. I screamed for help for a long time before rescuers arrived," she said, visibly distressed.

Another survivor, Dilipsinh Padhiyar, was on his two-wheeler when the collapse occurred. He recalled feeling a strong vibration before finding himself in the river, managing to cling to a metal rod until local fishermen rescued him. Eyewitness accounts indicate that many felt the ground tremor, as dozens aimed to assist those trapped in vehicles.

The event has ignited a political controversy, as locals claim they had repeatedly voiced concerns over the bridge's deteriorating condition. Ravibhai, a resident, noted that he often felt the bridge shake under heavy load traffic. Abhesinh Parmar, a local council chief, described the bridge as "dilapidated" with susceptible potholes, voicing frustrations about the lack of governmental action despite multiple complaints.

In contrast, Rushikesh Patel, a representative of the Gujarat government, stated that the bridge received regular inspections and maintenance, asserting that recent plans were underway for its replacement.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hailing from Gujarat, has expressed condolences to the grieving families and announced compensation for victims. The bridge collapse is part of a troubling trend in India, where poorly maintained public infrastructure has led to tragic accidents. Just last year, a historic bridge in Morbi collapsed, claiming around 135 lives shortly after reopening to the public.