A tragic incident struck Maharashtra’s Pune district on Sunday when a footbridge over the Indrayani River in Kundamala, Maval taluka, suddenly collapsed, sending scores of people—mostly tourists—plunging into the churning waters below. At least two people have died, 32 sustained injuries, and six have been rescued as rescue operations continue at the site.
The sudden collapse occurred amid heavy monsoon rains that had swollen the river, exacerbating the disaster. Eyewitnesses reported that around 20–25 people were on the bridge when it gave way.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, expressing grief over the loss, confirmed the casualties and said: “According to preliminary information, two people have died in this incident. I pay my heartfelt tribute to them. We share the grief of their families.” He added that rescue work was ongoing on a war footing with NDRF teams deployed, and that all agencies were in alert mode. He also confirmed that six of the 32 injured are currently in critical condition.
Visuals from the site reveal twisted sections of the bridge submerged in the river, while rescue workers—assisted by cranes and boats—continue to search for survivors. The old bridge, popular among tourists during the monsoon season, was reportedly overcrowded due to the Sunday footfall.
A rescue worker at the scene told IANS: “It collapsed while people were crossing it. So far, two bodies have been recovered. The rescue operation is still underway. The families of victims and many locals have gathered at the site.”
Authorities suspect that overcrowding and elevated water levels due to incessant rainfall over the past two days may have led to the collapse. The Divisional Commissioner has reached the site, and an investigation is expected to follow.
Kundmala, a scenic monsoon destination, often sees heavy weekend traffic. Officials urge the public to avoid river crossings during the rains and to heed weather advisories.
