An iron bridge over the Indrayani River in Pune collapsed and officials informed that several people are feared to have been swept away in the water current. Officials sources say 2 people died in the unfortunate incident.
As per PTI, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has launched rescue operations so far 3 people have been saved. The incident occurred near Kundmala area in Maval tehsil.
Kundamala, is a popular tourist destination in Pune and people throng the area during monsoons. "An old bridge collapsed here around 4 PM. Around 125 tourists were standing on the same spot on the bridge and it suddenly collapsed. Nearly 20-25 people were drifted away by the river. Some of them were taken out by local workers, while 4-5 are still stuck under the bridge," said Raghuvir Shelar, Former Vice President of Cantonment Board Dehu Road. The Kundamala region has been seeing heavy rains over the past few days, giving the river a steady flow.
"As per preliminary information, two persons have died in the collapse, while some are feared swept away. Five to six persons have been rescued as per initial information and have been sent to hospital for check ups," an an official from Talegaon Dabhade police station said.
Teams of the NDRF and personnel from other specialised units, including the fire brigade, are at the spot, which was crowded due to it being a Sunday. The area is heavily patronised by picnickers, the police official said.
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde said that orders have been given to conduct the structural audit 'of all such bridges'.
"The hospitals and the teams of doctors are trying their best to give confidence to every family. Most people are not hurt as badly as we thought. We are praying and trying our best to serve everybody. The (state) government will make an official statement," said NCP SCP MP Supriya Sule.