Pune Bridge Collapse: A bridge near Pune collapsed, leaving several tourists feared drowned. Rescue teams are on-site as authorities investigate the cause of the tragic incident.
June 15, 2025 – A tragic bridge collapse near Pune has left multiple tourists missing and feared drowned, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. The incident occurred near a popular tourist spot, with eyewitnesses reporting a sudden structural failure that sent vehicles and pedestrians plunging into the water below.
Pune Bridge Collapse: Key Highlights
Location: Bridge connecting Pune to a nearby tourist attraction
Time of Collapse: Late afternoon, when tourist traffic was high
Casualties: Several people reported missing; rescue teams searching
Response: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed
How the Collapse Happened
Eyewitnesses described a loud cracking sound before the bridge gave way, sending cars and pedestrians into the river. Preliminary reports suggest structural weaknesses due to recent heavy rainfall and possible maintenance lapses.
Confirmed Developments
Rescue teams using boats and drones to locate victims
Hospitals on alert for incoming casualties
Local authorities sealing off the area for investigation
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Aftermath
Survivors recounted scenes of panic:
“The bridge just crumbled beneath us,” said one tourist who narrowly escaped.
Vehicles were seen submerged as onlookers rushed to help.
Local officials have urged people to avoid the area to allow rescue operations to proceed unhindered.
Rescue Efforts and Challenges
Current Rescue Operations
NDRF teams conducting underwater searches
Divers and sonar equipment being used to locate missing individuals
Helicopters deployed for aerial surveys of the wreckage
Obstacles Faced by Rescuers
Strong river currents hampering dive teams
Poor visibility due to muddy water
Nightfall complicating search efforts
Authorities Investigate Possible Causes
While the exact cause remains unclear, early theories include:
Structural fatigue from years of heavy use
Recent monsoon rains weakening foundations
Possible construction flaws in the bridge’s design
A high-level inquiry has been ordered to determine responsibility.
Were there prior warnings about this bridge’s structural integrity?
How often are such tourist-area bridges inspected for safety?
Could better monitoring systems have prevented this tragedy?
What emergency protocols exist for bridge collapses in India?
Who will be held accountable for this infrastructure failure?
