Vadodara Bridge Accident: Toll rises to 15 as rescue operations continue

The rescue operations are being carried out by NDRF and SDRF teams, who are searching for the bodies of survivors or victims in the river.

Vadodara: 15 bodies have been recovered from the Mahisagar river after the bridge connecting Vadodara and Anand in Gujarat collapsed. Our of thease two bodies were taken out of the river today on Thursday. However 13 bodies were taken out yesterday on Wednesday, reports Dynamite News correspondent.

The rescue operations are being carried out by NDRF and SDRF teams, who are searching for the bodies of survivors or victims in the river.

Three Still Missing

The Vadodara Collector, Anil Dhamelia, said that the rescue operation is challenging due to the mud and rain, which is making it difficult for machines to work. He said that at least three people are still missing. He said that NDRF and SDRF teams are searching for the bodies of survivors or victims in the river. People can call our control room to inform us about other missing people.

Mud Poses A Challenge

He said that there could be more people missing apart from the three who have been identified as no specific information is available about the people in a car and a mini truck that fell into the river and got stuck in three metres of mud.

Six vehicles, including two trucks, two vans, an autorickshaw and a bike fell into the river. Two other vehicles were also about to fall when they were pulled and rescued. Three people riding a bike swam out on their own.

The bridge collapse has sent shockwaves through the region, with many families losing their loved ones. Sonalben, a resident of Mujpur village, lost her husband and two children in the accident. She recounted the horrific experience, saying that she was sitting in the rear of the van and managed to get out, but her family members were trapped.

The Gujarat Minister, Rishikesh Patel, said that the bridge was built in 1985 and was maintained from time to time. He assured that an investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the incident. The nearly 900-meter long Gambhira bridge has 23 pillars and connects Vadodara and Anand districts of Gujarat.

Rescue Operations Underway

The rescue operations are ongoing, with NDRF and SDRF teams searching for the missing persons. The district administration is working tirelessly to provide support to the affected families. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of old bridges and the need for regular maintenance and inspection.

The bridge collapse is a tragic reminder of the importance of infrastructure safety and the need for prompt action in emergency situations. As the rescue operations continue, the focus will shift to identifying the cause of the collapse and taking steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

In the meantime, the people of Vadodara and Anand are mourning the loss of their loved ones and coming together to support the affected families. The incident has brought the community together, and the rescue operations are a testament to the efforts of the district administration and emergency services.