Bridge Collapse Survivors Share Harrowing Accounts of the Tragic Incident
Survivors of a tragic bridge collapse in Gujarat, India, are recounting their harrowing experiences as the death toll rises to at least 15. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has left several families devastated, with ongoing search operations for the missing. Eyewitnesses described the moment of the collapse as akin to an explosion, while investigations into the cause are currently underway. The bridge, a vital connection between Vadodara district and central Gujarat, had reportedly been in poor condition, raising concerns about infrastructure safety in the region.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Collapse
On the morning of the collapse, Anwarbhai, who was driving a van with two passengers, experienced a terrifying moment when he heard a loud cracking sound. A section of the bridge collapsed into the Mahisagar River, dragging several 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 typically sees heavy traffic, had a section that dramatically gave way, resulting in vehicles, including trucks and cars, plunging into the river. As search efforts continue, at least four individuals remain unaccounted for, prompting officials from the National Disaster Response Force to prioritize locating both survivors and victims.
Survivors Share Their Stories
Among the survivors is Sonalben Padhiyar, who tragically lost six family members in the accident. She was in the back seat of her car when it fell into the river. In a distressing video that has circulated widely, she can be seen pleading for help for her son. “I screamed for a long time before help arrived,” she told reporters, highlighting the chaos and fear of that moment. Another survivor, Dilipsinh Padhiyar, was returning home from work when he felt the bridge vibrate beneath him. “I found myself falling into the river,” he said, recalling how he managed to cling to a metal rod until local fishermen came to his aid. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many believing they were experiencing an earthquake as the ground shook and vehicles fell.
Political Repercussions and Infrastructure Concerns
The bridge collapse has ignited a political controversy, with local residents voicing their long-standing concerns about the bridge’s deteriorating condition. Residents like Ravibhai noted that the bridge would often shake when heavy vehicles crossed it, while Abhesinh Parmar, a local council chief, described it as “dilapidated” with visible potholes and exposed rods. Despite these claims, Rushikesh Patel, a spokesperson for the Gujarat government, asserted that the bridge underwent regular inspections and repairs. He mentioned that plans were in place to dismantle the existing structure and construct a new one, with tenders expected to be issued soon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed condolences to the victims’ families and announced compensation for those affected.
Broader Implications for Public Safety
This incident is part of a troubling trend in India, where aging and poorly maintained infrastructure has led to numerous accidents. In 2022, a similar tragedy occurred when a 137-year-old suspension bridge in Morbi collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 135 people. Such incidents raise critical questions about public safety and the need for urgent infrastructure improvements. As the search for the missing continues and investigations unfold, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.
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