NDRF calls off search operation

While the bridge has been unsafe for several years, govt approved funds of ₹8 crore in July 2024

- HT Correspondent

MUMBAI/PUNE: The dilapidated Kundamala pedestrian bridge over the Indrayani river in Pune, which collapsed after being overcrowded by tourists on Sunday, has led to a storm of criticism from the opposition, which alleged that the government's tardiness on the construction of a new bridge was responsible for the deaths. The accident killed four persons and injured 50 others.

While the bridge has been unsafe for several years, the government approved funds of ₹8 crore only in July 2024 ahead of the assembly polls. Additionally, though the tendering process was started in October 2024, the public works department (PWD) issued a work order just five days ago after the beginning of the monsoon.

In their defence, PWD officials claimed that the bridge was delayed due to the imposition of the model code of conduct and "certain" technical challenges. Local BJP leader Ravindra Bhegade added that due to military restrictions in the area, the contractors were likely to have faced procedural hurdles.