Survivors Share Harrowing Accounts of Gujarat Bridge Collapse

Sun Oct 19 2025 05:17:31 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The recent bridge collapse in Gujarat claims at least 15 lives, leading to investigations and political debates over infrastructure safety.

A bridge collapse in Gujarat, India, caused at least 15 deaths and left several missing, as survivors recounted terrifying moments. Witnesses described an explosion-like noise and earth-shaking vibrations. Local residents criticized the bridge's poor condition, raising questions about infrastructure safety as the government pledges investigations and support for victims.

Survivors of a tragic bridge collapse in Gujarat, India, on Wednesday have described the harrowing moment they experienced what felt like an explosion or earthquake. The incident has claimed at least 15 lives, with four individuals still missing as search operations continue.

One survivor, Anwarbhai, was driving a van with two passengers when he heard a deafening crack, signaling a section of the bridge collapsing into the Mahisagar river. "There was a huge explosion-like sound and part of the bridge collapsed behind us. Our van also started rolling backwards so we quickly jumped out," he recounted to BBC Gujarati.

The bridge linked Vadodara district to central Gujarat and was known for heavy traffic. Eyewitness accounts detailed vehicles, including trucks and cars, plunging into the river after the structure gave way. Images showed a truck perilously perched on the edge of the dismantled bridge, which was later safely removed.

Sonalben Padhiyar was the sole survivor of her family; her car fell into the river, taking six family members with it. Distressed, she shared that she called out for help before rescuers arrived. Another survivor, Dilipsinh Padhiyar, described the moment of the collapse as he was returning home from a night shift. Despite suffering injuries, he held onto a metal rod to stay afloat until help arrived.

Local helpers rushed to the scene after a phone alert, working tirelessly to rescue victims. However, the incident has ignited political discussions, as residents reported consistently expressing concerns over the bridge's deteriorating condition. One local claimed that heavy vehicles would make the bridge shake, while another noted visible deviations in its structure.

Rushikesh Patel, a spokesperson for the Gujarat government, refuted claims of negligence, stating regular inspections were conducted, and plans for a new bridge were underway with tenders set to be issued soon. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced compensation for the victims' families.

This collapse marks just one in a series of deadly incidents tied to outdated and poorly maintained public infrastructure in India, raising urgent questions concerning safety and maintenance nationwide.