Tragic bridge collapse in India leaves two dead and dozens injured
- An iron bridge collapsed in Pune district, India, on June 15, 2025, during a busy tourist period.
- At least two people have died and 32 others have been injured, with six in critical condition requiring hospitalization.
- Rescue operations are ongoing as officials deal with the aftermath of the collapse and investigate safety measures.
On June 15, 2025, a tragic incident occurred at a popular tourist destination in India’s western Maharashtra state when an iron bridge over a river collapsed, leading to significant loss of life and injuries. Reports indicate that at least two individuals died while 32 others sustained injuries in the collapse, which happened during a period of heavy rain in the region. The state's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, noted that six individuals were in critical condition and hospitalized, highlighting the severity of the situation. Local media coverage suggests that numerous tourists were present on the bridge during the collapse, with many plunging into the swollen river below. Emergency response efforts commenced shortly after the incident, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force and other recovery units deployed for rescue operations. Alongside the rescue efforts, multiple survivors were located, but concerns remained as some individuals were feared to have been swept away by the river's current. Chief Minister Fadnavis publicly expressed his sorrow over the occurrence, which underscores the ongoing safety concerns that plague India’s infrastructure, particularly in the wake of prior disasters stemming from similar issues. The incident took place in the Kundamala area of Pune district, a region that has been grappling with heavy rainfall in recent days, transforming the river’s flow into a dangerously swift current. Despite the rain preceding the bridge's collapse, conditions at the moment were reportedly clear, making the event sudden and unexpected. This tragedy echoes the broader systemic problems concerning infrastructure maintenance and safety in India and raises questions about preventive measures that could have mitigated such incidents. Government authorities have committed to investigating the cause of the bridge collapse thoroughly, as citizens call for improvements in safety assessments for public structures. The Chief Minister also assured that resources would be provided for comprehensive rescue efforts and for any further necessary support to affected families. As investigations proceed, the heart-wrenching story of this incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for infrastructural diligence, especially in areas frequented by the public and tourists alike.