KKN Gurugram Desk |  A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon in Maharashtra’s Maval tehsil, located in Pimpri-Chinchwad near Pune, where a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuries to over 30 others. Several others are feared missing after being swept away by the strong river current.

The iron bridge, which connected parts of the Kundmala area, was reportedly used by locals and tourists alike. Initial reports suggest that excessive crowding, structural deterioration, and recent heavy rains may have caused the collapse.

Bridge Was Originally Meant for Farmers, Says MLA

Speaking on the tragedy, NCP MLA Sunil Shelke stated that the bridge was constructed nearly 30 years ago with the primary purpose of allowing farmers to commute across the Indrayani River. However, over the past decade, the area has developed as a popular tourist destination, significantly increasing footfall and vehicle pressure on the bridge.

“The bridge was not designed to handle the load of tourists and two-wheelers in large numbers. Though it was maintained from time to time, it was never structurally upgraded to bear such heavy usage,” said MLA Shelke.

Local sources confirmed that authorities had previously tried to restrict tourist movement on the bridge, but enforcement remained lax, especially during weekends and holidays.

Eyewitness Reports Describe Sudden Collapse

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the bridge gave way without warning. Many people, including families and young tourists, were standing on or riding two-wheelers across the bridge when it suddenly collapsed into the swollen river.

The recent spell of heavy rainfall in Pune and surrounding areas had already raised water levels in the Indrayani River, making rescue operations more dangerous and challenging.

Casualty Count and Rescue Operations

According to Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi, as of late Sunday evening:

• 5 people have been confirmed dead.

• 32 others sustained injuries and are being treated at local hospitals.

• 38 people were rescued from the river.

• Exact number of missing persons is still being assessed.

“We are working to identify all individuals who were present on or near the bridge at the time of the collapse. Rescue teams are continuing search operations,” said Dudi.

Search and rescue efforts are being led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local fire brigades and volunteers. Divers have been deployed to search for possible victims swept away by the river’s strong current.

Bridge Had Signs of Corrosion: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also addressed the incident, stating that preliminary investigation suggests the bridge structure was corroded and weakened over time.

“It appears the bridge gave way due to rusting of iron components combined with excessive load from people standing on it,” said Pawar.

He further ordered a technical audit of all similar small and old bridges in the region to prevent such accidents in the future.

Location Details: Kundmala Area in Focus

The accident occurred in the Kundmala region of Maval, a region popular for its scenic river views and rural tourism. The site attracts visitors, especially during monsoon season, when the Indrayani River swells and enhances the natural beauty of the area.

Unfortunately, it is also during this time that the risk of such accidents increases, as older bridges are subjected to higher pressure from both rising water levels and increased public use.

Administrative Response and Future Measures

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and directed the administration to provide immediate assistance to the affected families.

A formal inquiry committee is expected to be formed to investigate:

• The structural condition of the bridge prior to collapse.

• Any lapses in routine maintenance and safety oversight.

• The extent to which unauthorized or excessive usage contributed to the collapse.

Local officials have begun surveying nearby bridges and crossings, especially those in tourist zones and flood-prone areas, to prevent similar disasters.

Local Residents Raise Safety Concerns

Locals from the Maval and Pimpri-Chinchwad area have long voiced concerns about the condition of aging infrastructure, especially in areas that have become de facto tourist spots. Many small bridges and rural paths were originally built to support light agricultural traffic, not hundreds of visitors and motorbikes.

“We have written to local authorities several times about overuse of this bridge. But no one took it seriously until this tragedy happened,” said a resident from the Kundmala area.

Warning Issued Amid Continued Rainfall

With heavy monsoon rains continuing in Pune and surrounding districts, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued advisories urging caution near rivers, streams, and low-lying areas.

Authorities have also advised citizens and tourists to:

• Avoid using old or weak bridges during rainfall.

• Refrain from venturing into water bodies.

• Follow official guidelines and safety notices issued by local administrations.

The Indrayani River bridge collapse in Maval has brought to light the critical issue of aging infrastructure, especially in semi-urban and rural tourist zones of Maharashtra. While the incident has claimed lives and left many injured, it also serves as a wake-up call for government authorities to re-evaluate safety standards and upgrade essential structures.

As search operations continue, the focus remains on saving lives and supporting victims. But once the dust settles, serious conversations around infrastructure audit, tourism management, and public safety must take center stage.