Nine killed as bridge collapses in western India, vehicles plunge into river VIDEO

At least nine people have died and several others were injured after a bridge collapsed in the western Indian state of Gujarat on July 9, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar (Mahi) River.

The collapse occurred during peak morning traffic on the Gambhira-Mujpur bridge in Padra, a town in Vadodara district, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The bridge connects the districts of Anand and Vadodara and is a key transportation link in the region. According to initial reports, four vehicles—including two trucks, a Bolero SUV, and a pickup van—were on the bridge when it suddenly gave way.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound just before the section of the bridge gave out, causing the vehicles to fall into the river below.

Emergency responders, including fire brigade teams, police, and local officials, arrived swiftly at the scene and began rescue operations. Locals also assisted in pulling injured passengers from the wreckage. Three people were rescued and transported to nearby hospitals.

Local legislator Chaitanyasinh Zala visited the site shortly after the incident. Authorities have sealed off the area and launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse.

Residents have long voiced concerns over the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which serves as a vital corridor for commuters between central and southern parts of Gujarat, including the industrial hubs of Bharuch and Ankleshwar.

By Sabina Mammadli