A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday (June 15) afternoon when a 30-year-old iron bridge over the Indrayani River in Pune’s Kundamala area collapsed, killing two people and injuring 32 others. The bridge, a popular spot for tourists in Maval tehsil, caved in around 3:30 PM, just as weekend visitors had gathered in large numbers.
According to police, several tourists were standing on the bridge when it suddenly gave way, plunging many into the swollen river below. Rescue operations were swiftly launched, with two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and villagers rushing to the site. So far, three people have been rescued, while one person is believed to have been swept away.
Sunil Shelke, MLA from Maval, confirmed that around 100 people were on the bridge at the time of the collapse. “Some fell off but managed to swim to the shore,” he said.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “Preliminary information indicates two people have lost their lives. My heartfelt condolences to their families. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and all agencies have been placed on high alert,” he said. He added that 32 individuals were injured, six of whom are in critical condition and receiving treatment.
The state government has announced INR 5 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and has promised to cover the medical expenses of those injured.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended condolences and said he had spoken to CM Fadnavis. “NDRF teams responded with remarkable promptness and saved several lives. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Shah posted on X.
NCP MP Supriya Sule called the incident “very unfortunate” and urged citizens to remain cautious during monsoon visits to tourist spots. She confirmed that the Pune district administration was providing all necessary assistance.
The colonial-era bridge collapsed amid heavy rainfall that had increased river levels and water flow. Strong currents are complicating ongoing search and rescue operations, with fears that as many as 25-30 people may have been swept away.
Emergency teams, including 18–20 ambulances, fire tenders, and boats, remain on site as operations continue through the evening.
(With inputs from multiple news reports)
Note: This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.