Overview of the Incident
On June 15, 2025, tragedy struck Pune’s Maval taluka when a 32-year-old iron footbridge spanning the Indrayani River collapsed under the weight of a large crowd and several two-wheelers.
The bridge, located in Shelarwadi village, near the popular Induri area, was meant solely for pedestrian use but had become a regular route for local traffic.
At the time of the collapse, over 100 people were reportedly on the bridge, along with multiple two-wheelers—causing extreme structural stress. Around 3:15 PM, the old iron structure gave way, sending dozens plunging into the fast-flowing Indrayani River below.
Human Casualties
As per official statements, the collapse resulted in:
- 4 confirmed deaths
- 51 injured, of which 8 were critically hurt
- Victims included a 5-year-old boy and several local residents.
Authorities identified some deceased as Chandrakant Mane, Rohit Mane, and Vihan Mane, while the fourth victim remains unnamed. Several others sustained head injuries, fractures, and internal trauma due to the sudden fall and impact.
The victims were rushed to Talegaon General Hospital and Pune’s Sassoon Hospital, with rescue teams working around the clock.
Rescue Operations and Immediate Response
Upon the collapse, an extensive multi-agency rescue operation was launched. It involved:
- The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Local police and fire brigade teams
- Emergency paramedics and local volunteers
Divers, cranes, and even sniffer dogs were deployed to assist in locating missing persons. Video footage showed parts of the bridge submerged under murky water, and several two-wheelers floating downstream.
Authorities later confirmed that all missing individuals were accounted for by night, bringing a partial sense of relief.
Initial Findings: Why Did the Bridge Collapse?
Early investigations suggest a combination of factors led to the tragic incident:
- Severe overloading: The footbridge was not designed to carry such weight. Locals revealed that 7-10 two-wheelers and over 100 people were on it.
- Lack of maintenance: Despite being 32 years old, the bridge had received no recent repairs or structural audits.
- Heavy rainfall: Recent monsoon showers had increased the water level and weakened the base structure.
- Ignored warnings: Residents had repeatedly alerted the administration about the deteriorating condition of the bridge. However, no significant action was taken.
Government and Political Reactions
State Response
- Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief and assured all necessary help.
- The state government announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for each deceased and free medical treatment for the injured.
Administrative Action
- A 5-member investigation committee has been formed under the Pune Collector to find accountability.
- The bridge was under the jurisdiction of the Zilla Parishad, which had reportedly requested ₹8 crore for a new bridge. The project had not yet been approved or started.
Future Infrastructure Plans
Following the disaster, the state ordered an immediate audit of all old bridges across Maharashtra to prevent such events in the future.
Public and Celebrity Reactions
The tragedy sparked widespread grief and frustration among locals and netizens alike. Among them, Bollywood actor and philanthropist Sonu Sood tweeted:
“Heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. #Pune”
His message quickly went viral, appreciated by many for acknowledging the pain of the affected.
Citizens also criticized the authorities for negligence and demanded stricter infrastructure safety protocols.
Visual Horror: Scenes from the Collapse
Photos published by LiveMint and shared on social media revealed the severity of the collapse:
- Crumpled iron rods, broken railing, and personal belongings scattered across the riverbed
- People crying for help while divers pulled them out
- Rescue teams working under rainfall with boats and stretchers
The site was cordoned off within an hour of the collapse, and traffic to the area was restricted.
Investigative Status and Accountability
According to Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi, the initial report suggests both structural decay and administrative negligence. The bridge was never designed for motorized vehicles but had become a shortcut for locals due to lack of alternative routes.
Authorities are now examining:
- Why the bridge wasn’t closed to vehicles
- Why routine audits weren’t performed
- Why citizen complaints were ignored
Legal action may be taken against Zilla Parishad officials and public works officers if found guilty of negligence.
Lessons and Long-Term Measures
This incident is a wake-up call for civic bodies and infrastructure departments nationwide.
Key suggestions for the future:
- Bridge health audits every 2 years: Especially for structures over 15 years old.
- Weight limit enforcement: Including CCTV, digital counters, and barricades for old footbridges.
- Alternative routes development: So that shortcuts like this bridge aren’t overused beyond capacity.
- Public reporting systems: Allowing locals to report infrastructure hazards more effectively.
- Emergency readiness drills: Especially in monsoon-prone and densely populated areas.
Local Voices: What Residents Say
Local villagers expressed anger over repeated ignorance by civic authorities. “We had told the Panchayat and Zilla officials multiple times. This was a tragedy waiting to happen,” said one resident. Another added, “Now they’ll build a new bridge—but why did lives have to be lost first?”
Activists have also raised concerns about rural infrastructure in Maharashtra, where over 60% of bridges are reportedly over two decades old and under-maintained.
The Pune footbridge collapse is not just a case of a structural failure—it is a symbol of systemic neglect. While nature played a role, it was human error, administrative oversight, and lack of preparedness that turned it into a disaster.
Lives were lost, families shattered, and a community traumatized. The real tribute to the victims would be ensuring real action—not just compensation and committees.
This tragedy underlines a fundamental truth: infrastructure is not just cement and steel, it’s life and safety. The government now has the moral and administrative responsibility to prevent the next collapse—before more lives are lost.
