Sulfuric acid tanker capsized in river poses grave threat; rescue teams face skin burns, operations continue under high alert amid rising water levels
Ahmedabad: The collapse of a 43-year-old bridge in Gujarat’s Vadodara district has turned increasingly tragic, with the death toll rising to 18 after two more bodies were recovered on Friday. Rescue operations continue under extremely hazardous conditions due to the presence of a capsized tanker carrying 98% concentrated sulfuric acid in the river.
Vadodara Collector Anil Dhamelia confirmed the situation, stating that emergency teams are working around the clock despite serious risks to their health and safety.
“A tanker carrying 98% concentrated sulfuric acid has capsized in the river. This chemical is extremely dangerous, and some rescue personnel are experiencing skin problems. Despite the danger, the operation continues under high alert,” said Collector Anil Dhamelia.
Toxic Hazards Hamper Rescue Efforts
The chemical spill has added a major environmental and safety hazard to an already complex operation. Rescuers have reported skin irritation and chemical exposure symptoms, and officials have acknowledged the serious risk posed by sulfuric acid contamination, especially as it reacts with water.
The operation had to be temporarily suspended at 10 PM on Thursday due to rising river levels from heavy rainfall, which had submerged parts of the wreckage and further complicated the search.
Recovery Timeline and Missing Persons Update
Initially, seven people were reported missing following the incident. The number increased to eight the next day. On the first day of the operation, teams recovered 12 bodies. Now, with six more bodies found, the total death toll has reached 18, with two individuals still unaccounted for.
“We have identified the submerged vehicle and its occupants. Search operations are ongoing to locate the last two missing persons,” Dhamelia said.
Bridge Demolition and Vehicle Recovery Plans
Authorities have announced that demolition of the collapsed bridge slab will begin only after the remaining victims are recovered. The submerged tanker, which poses a significant danger, will be removed with expert intervention.
A puller mechanism will be used to extract trucks trapped beneath the slab, once conditions are deemed safe for dismantling. Environmental safety measures are being implemented in coordination with disaster management and chemical experts.
Safety Precautions and Public Advisory
Residents in surrounding areas have been advised to stay away from the riverbank, and health facilities have been alerted to prepare for potential chemical exposure cases. Monitoring teams are assessing the impact of sulfuric acid on water and soil contamination.
The Gujarat government is expected to announce compensation for the victims' families and initiate a broader audit of old infrastructure to prevent future tragedies of this scale.
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