Gujarat: At least nine people lost their lives and several others were injured after a section of the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge collapsed in Padra taluka of Gujarat’s Vadodara district on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred during peak traffic hours when the bridge, which connects the Anand and Vadodara districts, suddenly gave way, causing four vehicles - including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van-to plunge into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking noise moments before the collapse, after which the vehicles crashed into the river. Emergency response teams, including fire brigade personnel, local police, and the Vadodara district administration, quickly arrived at the scene and launched a rescue operation. Locals also joined the efforts, helping to extract survivors from the wreckage. So far, three injured individuals have been rescued and admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse. Padra MLA Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the site and assured action. Meanwhile, cranes and divers are being used to retrieve submerged vehicles and search for any missing persons. The incident has caused major disruptions, with the administration advising motorists to take alternate routes.

Local residents have expressed anger and frustration, alleging that repeated warnings about the deteriorating condition of the bridge were ignored by authorities. The bridge, a vital link between Central Gujarat and Saurashtra, has long been flagged as a safety risk. Senior Congress leader Amit Chavda also criticized the administration, demanding accountability and urgent action to prevent such tragedies in the future.