Pune, June 15, 2025:- A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon in Maharashtra’s Pune district, as an aging iron bridge spanning the Indrayani River in the Kundmala area of Maval tehsil collapsed under the weight of nearly a hundred people. The disaster left at least two dead, 32 injured, and several more feared missing in the strong river currents, triggering a massive rescue operation.
The collapse occurred around 3:30 PM during a busy monsoon weekend, when tourists often flock to the lush, waterfall-laced surroundings near the dam. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as the bridge, reportedly more than 30 years old, gave way suddenly, plunging scores of people into the swollen river below.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the fatalities and said he is closely monitoring the situation. Expressing grief on social media, he stated, “I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the tragedy… Two people have died, and rescue efforts are ongoing.”
Local MLA Sunil Shelke noted that many managed to swim to safety, but as many as 10 to 15 people are still unaccounted for. He cited seasonal pressure from high water levels and the age of the structure as likely contributing factors to the collapse. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed two specialized teams to assist in the operation, joined by local police, fire brigades, and emergency response units from Talegaon Dabhade.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishal Gaikwad, overseeing operations in Pimpri-Chinchwad’s Zone 2, reported that six to seven victims suffered serious injuries and are currently being treated at nearby hospitals. He added that search and rescue efforts are being conducted vigorously, with personnel using boats, ropes, and thermal imaging equipment to locate survivors in the water and under debris.
The bridge, located near a popular dam and scenic waterfall, had been under structural strain for years. Preliminary observations suggest that the recent spike in water levels due to monsoon rains intensified pressure on the already compromised structure, leading to its sudden failure.
As news of the disaster spread, Nationalist Congress Party MP Supriya Sule called the incident “very unfortunate” and confirmed she had spoken directly with the Pune District Collector to ensure emergency support and relief reach the affected immediately.
Local authorities have cordoned off the area and urged residents and tourists to stay away until rescue operations are completed. Efforts are expected to continue overnight, with divers and NDRF personnel working against time and weather to locate the missing.
This tragedy has reignited concerns over aging public infrastructure and the lack of proactive maintenance in high-traffic recreational zones, especially during the monsoon season when safety risks escalate significantly.
