A tragic disaster struck near Kundamala village in Pimpri-Chinchwad, close to Pune, on Sunday evening when a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed, resulting in the deaths of at least six people and leaving 25 others feared swept away. The incident occurred in Maval tehsil, where the bridge, already under strain from a surge of weekend visitors—gave way under heavy load, plunging dozens into the fast-flowing river below.
According to police reports, 10 to 15 people are believed to be trapped under the debris. Three individuals were rescued shortly after the collapse, while search and rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local authorities, and police continue their intensive efforts to locate survivors and recover bodies. The strong river currents and fading daylight have made rescue operations particularly challenging.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the incident, stating that the administration is fully engaged in rescue and relief operations. He urged the public and media to await verified updates, noting, “It is possible that some people have been swept away. The situation is being assessed, and we will share confirmed information once we have clarity.”
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and panic as the overcrowded bridge suddenly collapsed, with locals rushing to assist before emergency services arrived. The accident has sparked serious concerns about the structural integrity and safety of public infrastructure, particularly in tourist-frequented areas. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse and have pledged to implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The region remains on high alert as rescue operations continue through the night.