4 dead, 1 still trapped as bridge collapses in Pune

Four people were killed, 18 were injured and one remained trapped under debris after a 33-year-old iron pedestrian bridge on the Indrayani river collapsed in Pune amid heavy rainfall, officials aware of the matter said on Sunday, adding that teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been conducting rescue operations at the spot over the last four hours.

- Shrinivas Deshpande

PUNE:

The incident occurred around 3:30 pm, when more than 100 tourists had gathered near Kund Mala in Talegaon, a popular tourist destination located about 30 km from Pune, known for its natural sinkholes, gorges, and unique rock formations.

A statement from the Pune district administration said: "In the mishap, so far 38 people have been rescued of which 18 sustained serious injuries and they are currently under treatment in three different hospitals. During treatment, two people succumbed to injuries." Of those injured, six have sustained serious injuries and have been hospitalized, officials added.

Officials have identified the deceased as Kolhapur residents Rohit Mane (35) and Vihan Mane (5), and Pune resident Chandrakant Sathale (65). The fourth victim is yet to be identified, they added.

Union home minister Amit Shah spoke to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and enquired about the situation on the ground. "Deeply saddened by the tragic incident of the bridge collapse...," he posted on X.