Massive calamity near Talegaon Dabhade as bridge caves in, locals claim screams echoed for minutes as tourists were dragged by Indrayani's furious waters; rescue ops underway, officials in shock
Pune: In what could become one of the deadliest infrastructure disasters in recent memory, a bridge spanning the Indrayani River at Kundmala near Talegaon Dabhade in Pune’s Maval taluk collapsed, dragging more than two dozen tourists into the raging waters below.
The incident occurred at around 3:30 PM on Sunday, leaving chaos, panic, and despair in its wake. Locals say the sudden collapse gave no warning, "the bridge just crumbled like a toy structure," said a witness.
“We heard a deafening crack… and then screams. People disappeared into the water within seconds,” said a horrified local, speaking to News Flash on the condition of anonymity.
According to initial reports, at least 20 to 25 people are feared drowned. Swift action was taken as Talegaon Dabhade police from Pimpri-Chinchwad commissionerate rushed to the site, launching a massive rescue and recovery operation. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have reportedly been alerted as well.
The exact cause of the collapse remains unknown, sparking concerns over the safety audits of aging infrastructure across the state. Questions are now being raised on whether warning signs were ignored or inspections skipped.
“The bridge was already in a dangerous condition, but no one took action. Today, innocent lives paid the price,” alleged a local activist.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and appealed to citizens to stay away from the riverbank as rescue teams continue their efforts. Drones and rescue boats have been deployed amid rising fear that the death toll may increase.
The government is expected to issue a formal statement soon. Meanwhile, the families of the missing are gathered at the banks, hoping for miracles.
No comments:
Post a Comment