The tragic collapse of an old iron bridge over the Indrayani river near Kundamala in Maval taluka, Pune, has claimed the lives of four people and left 51 injured, according to official reports. Rescue operations, which began shortly after the incident, have resumed this morning as search efforts continue. The incident has sparked a wave of reactions from political leaders across the state.
Amid the growing concern, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray has issued a sharp response, questioning the government’s preparedness and accountability.
“Yesterday, an old iron bridge collapsed over the Indrayani river near Kundamala village in Maval taluka. Several people were swept away, and tragically, some lost their lives,” Thackeray said. “The full extent of the damage is still unknown. On behalf of the MNS, I extend heartfelt condolences to the victims of this accident.”
Raj Thackeray criticized the authorities for not acting preemptively, despite knowing the bridge was unsafe. “If the bridge was dangerous, why wasn’t there a complete ban on entry? Why wasn’t it demolished and replaced with a safer structure?” he questioned.
He added, “After every such incident, the standard response from the government is always: ‘Rescue work is underway at a rapid pace and the government stands firmly with the affected citizens.’ But why does it have to come to this?”
Thackeray expressed frustration over the lack of preventive infrastructure planning. “There are so many departments within the government—what are they doing? Can’t dangerous bridges be inspected, repaired, or shut down before the monsoon? Why do we need tragic incidents to trigger action?”
He went on to question those in power: “If the administration isn’t acting, why can’t the people who have held power for years make it happen? What’s the point of their experience in governance if it doesn't serve the people?”
Thackeray also made an appeal to citizens, urging them to exercise caution: “People must also control their enthusiasm. They should be more careful when visiting such hazardous areas with their families. Of course, this does not absolve the government of responsibility. But if the authorities continue to be negligent, then we must remain vigilant ourselves.”
He concluded with a stern warning about the broader implications of the monsoon season: “Now that the rains have begun, incidents like waterlogging, road washouts, and bridge collapses are being reported across the state. The government must act on a war footing to minimize public suffering.”