On June 15, 2025, a 30-year-old iron pedestrian bridge over the Indrayani River in Pune’s Maval tehsil, near Kundamala village, collapsed around 3:30 pm, killing four people, including a six-year-old boy, and injuring 51 others, with six in critical condition. The bridge, a popular tourist spot during the monsoon due to nearby waterfalls and whirlpools, was overcrowded with approximately 100–125 tourists when it gave way. Heavy rainfall had swollen the river, and the bridge had been declared dangerous by the district collector, with warning signs posted, though tourists ignored them.
Image Source: PTI
Rescue operations, involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, fire brigade, and volunteers, were launched immediately and concluded on June 16 after accounting for all missing persons. Around 38–52 people were rescued, with 18 requiring hospitalization. A photograph taken moments before the collapse showed the bridge packed beyond capacity, raising concerns about crowd control and administrative negligence.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced ₹5 lakh (approximately £4,285) in financial aid for the families of the deceased and assured medical expenses for the injured. He noted that the bridge was rusted and that a contract for a new bridge had already been issued. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and Minister Eknath Shinde emphasized structural failure due to rust and overcrowding, with Shinde ordering a statewide audit of similar bridges. NCP MP Supriya Sule, who had previously raised concerns about the bridge’s condition, demanded accountability.
Image Source: ANI
A probe is underway to investigate the collapse, with preliminary reports pointing to the bridge’s age, rust, and excessive tourist load, exacerbated by two-wheelers on the structure. The incident has sparked public outrage over neglected infrastructure and lax safety enforcement at tourist sites.
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