Two Killed, 32 Injured As Bridge Collapses In Maharashtra's Pune District; Rescue Ops Ongoing

Two people were killed and 32 others were injured after a bridge over Indrayani river near Indori village in Pune district collapsed on Sunday(15 June) afternoon, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.

The incident occurred when several people had gathered on the bridge, which had been in a dilapidated state, to witness the swelling river.

The bridge reportedly collapsed and fell into the Indrayani river and swept away at least 15 to 20 people with the speeding stream.

Police and disaster relief workers, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), quickly arrived at the scene and began rescue operations.

Expressing grief over the tragic incident, Fadnavis stated that he is in constant contact with the Divisional Commissioner, District Collector, CP, and Tehsildar.

"As per information received till now, 2 persons have lost their lives. My deepest condolences to their families. We share their grief in this difficult time. We stand with the bereaved families," Fadnavis said.

He added that six people have been rescued while search operations is continuing on war-footing for those swept away by the river.

"NDRF teams are already deployed on-site, and all concerned agencies have been directed to remain on high alert. Rescue operations are being done with full speed & efforts," he said.

"So far, 6 people have been rescued. 32 persons are injured, including 6 in critical condition, receiving treatment at hospitals," the Maharashtra CM said.

He added that the Divisional Commissioner is reaching there to oversee relief and rescue operations.

The collapsed bridge was frequently used by tourists to cross the river or stop for photographs, Indian Express reported.

The water level in the Indrayani River has risen sharply due to heavy monsoon rains, and the current has become significantly stronger.