At least four people died as an old iron bridge over the Indrayani river in Maharashtra's Pune district collapsed on Sunday afternoon, sweeping several people into the water and triggering a major rescue operation, authorities said, reports NDTV.
Thirty-two people have been injured in the incident, with six reported to be in serious condition and currently undergoing treatment at a hospital, said Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The incident occurred around 3:30pm in the Kundmala area of Maval tehsil in Maharashtra, where heavy weekend footfall had been reported due to the monsoon season.
According to officials, a large number of tourists had gathered on the bridge when it suddenly gave way, plunging many into the river. Follow Pune bridge collapse news live updates.
Rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are on the scene as efforts continue to locate those missing in the river. Authorities fear that the toll may rise as search operations progress.
Devendra Fadnavis said in a post on 'X': "I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the tragedy that occurred when a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed in Indori, near Talegaon in Pune district. According to preliminary information, two people have died in this incident."
He added that he is in constant touch with rescue teams and authorities.
"The iron bridge over the Indrayani River is 30 years old. Around 100 people were present on the bridge. Some fell off but managed to reach the shore," said Sunil Shelke, lawmaker from Maval.
Rescue teams from Talegaon Dabhade police station were the first to reach the spot, followed by two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), who are currently conducting rescue operations.
The collapsed bridge was located close to an old dam on the Indrayani river—a location known for its high tourist footfall. The structure is believed to have been under strain due to age and the seasonal increase in water levels.
Bd-pratidin Englishy/Tanvir Raihan
