Pune Bridge Built for Farmers 30 Years Ago Collapses Under Tourist Load; 2 Dead, Says MLA

A bridge over the Indrayani River in Maharashtra’s Pune district collapsed on Sunday afternoon, leaving two people dead and several others feared swept away by the strong currents. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. near the Kundamala area in Maval tehsil, where a large number of visitors had gathered for the weekend.

According to NCP MLA Sunil Shelke, the bridge was constructed 30 years ago to facilitate the movement of farmers. He told news agency ANI that while the structure had been repaired regularly and entry of tourists was restricted, the collapse was caused by the excessive load from tourists and two-wheelers.

“This bridge was meant for farmers, not for heavy use. Despite warnings, tourists continued to visit, and unfortunately, this tragedy occurred. Two people have lost their lives,” Shelke said.

He added that both the Pimpri-Chinchwad administration and NDRF teams were actively involved in the rescue operation.

Two teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to the site and are conducting ongoing search and rescue operations.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his grief over the incident, confirming the deaths of two individuals and stating that 32 others were injured, including six who are in critical condition and currently receiving treatment in hospital.

“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. I offer my heartfelt condolences to their families,” Fadnavis wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

He added that he had spoken with senior officials, including the Divisional Commissioner, District Collector, Superintendent of Police, and the Tehsildar, and that rescue efforts were being carried out on a war footing.