A team of senior officials from the Roads and Buildings Department inspects the site after several vehicles fell into the Mahisagar river when a portion of a four-decade-old bridge collapsed, in Gujarat’s Vadodara district. File.
| Photo Credit: PTI
A preliminary investigation into the collapse of the Mujpur-Gambhira bridge in Padra taluka of Gujarat’s Vadodara district has identified structural failure — specifically the crushing of pedestals and articulation joints — as the primary cause, Gujarat Health Minister and government spokesperson Rushikesh Patel said on Friday (July 11, 2025).
During his visit to the accident site, Mr. Patel said that the high-level probe was ordered by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and is being conducted by the Roads and Buildings Department. “As per the committee’s initial findings, the collapse occurred due to pedestal and articulation crushing,” he said.
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The Minister further informed that the committee will submit a comprehensive report within 30 days, covering both technical and administrative aspects of the tragedy. “The report will be handed over to the Chief Minister, based on which further decisions will be taken,” Mr. Patel said.
In response to initial findings of negligence, the state government has already suspended four officials from the R&B Department on Thursday. “Wherever lapses have come to light, action has been taken. The government will not hesitate to take further necessary measures,” he added.
Providing an update on the rescue efforts, Mr. Patel said the search operation is in its final phase. “All vehicles that fell into the river have been retrieved, and the bodies of the deceased have been handed over to their families. The administration has responded swiftly and with utmost sensitivity,” he said.
Published – July 11, 2025 02:41 pm IST