Four individuals lost their lives and 32 others were injured after a decades-old bridge spanning the Indrayani River in Pune’s Kundmala area gave way on Sunday afternoon, following intense rainfall. The collapsed structure, located in the Maval region, plunged into the river, dragging several people with it as the current surged.

The tragic incident took place when numerous tourists had gathered on the deteriorating bridge to watch the rising river. Local officials had earlier closed it to vehicular traffic, but people continued to access it on foot, especially during the monsoon season, when the area attracts significant crowds.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed the fatalities and injuries via a post on X, stating:

“According to preliminary information, 2 people have died in this incident. I pay my heartfelt tribute to them. We share the grief of their families.”
He added that “as some people have been swept away, a search is being carried out. NDRF has been deployed at the spot. Six people have been rescued so far… 32 people were injured, six of them are critical. They have been admitted to the hospital for treatment.”

Emergency services rushed to the site, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and fire personnel launching a large-scale search and rescue effort. A fleet of ambulances and rescue boats has also been deployed. So far, 38 people have been brought to safety, though several others are still feared missing.

Vitthal Banhote, Disaster Management Officer of Pimpri-Chinchwad, confirmed to media that the NDRF had reached the site swiftly:
“The bridge collapsed while tourists were on it. The NDRF is at the spot.”

Officials noted that the bridge, managed by the Pune Zilla Parishad, was originally built three decades ago to support farmers’ movement. However, its structural integrity had weakened over time.

NCP MLA Sunil Shelke commented on the cause, stating:

“This bridge was constructed for the movement of farmers 30 years ago. But due to the excessive load of tourists and two-wheelers, this bridge collapsed.”
He also noted:
“We used to repair it from time to time and had denied the entry of tourists. However, they still came here and the tragedy took place.”

The scenic Kundmala area, roughly 30 km from Pune, is known for its natural beauty and attracts visitors from both Pune and Mumbai, particularly during the monsoon. Heavy rains in the region over the past few days had caused the river to swell, increasing pressure on the weakened structure.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said that an inquiry would be initiated and action taken against those responsible for any negligence. Meanwhile, search and rescue efforts continue as officials attempt to locate more victims and provide aid to the injured.