PM Modi condoles death of those killed in Gujarat bridge collapse, announces compensation
Gujarat, India — July 9, 2025: A deadly bridge collapse in Gujarat has claimed several lives, including women and children. The tragedy has drawn national attention and a swift response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He extended his condolences to the grieving families and announced financial compensation to support them.
The bridge collapsed late Monday evening in a remote area of Gujarat. As dozens of people crossed it, the structure gave way, throwing them into the river below. Eyewitnesses reported a loud cracking sound, followed by screams and chaos as the bridge fell apart.
Prime Minister Modi Reacts Swiftly
Prime Minister Modi shared his sorrow soon after the incident. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Extremely pained by the bridge collapse in Gujarat. My thoughts are with the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Prayers for the injured. Rescue operations are underway, and all possible assistance is being provided.”
Modi’s deep connection to Gujarat, his home state, added emotional weight to his message. He also instructed central agencies to coordinate closely with the state administration.
Relief Measures Announced
The Prime Minister declared financial aid through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). The relief includes:
- ₹2 lakh to each family who lost a member
- ₹50,000 for each injured person
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also pledged support. He announced an additional ₹4 lakh compensation from the state government for each deceased victim’s family. Hospitals will provide free treatment to the injured. The government has urged private hospitals to help if necessary.
Rescue Teams Work Around the Clock
Rescue efforts began within hours. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) reached the scene. Local volunteers joined hands with authorities to save lives.
Rescuers used boats, divers, and drones to search the river. So far, the confirmed death toll has reached 21. Several people remain missing. Doctors are treating many survivors in nearby hospitals.
NDRF Commandant Rajesh Kumar confirmed that strong river currents and bridge debris have slowed the search. However, the teams will not stop until they locate every missing person.
Recent Renovation Raises Questions
Locals say the bridge had reopened just weeks ago after months of renovation. The timing of the collapse has led to growing anger. People are questioning the quality of the repairs.
Preliminary findings suggest flaws in the bridge’s foundation. Experts suspect poor material quality or design misjudgments. Many now demand accountability for the renovation project.
The state government has launched a judicial inquiry. A retired High Court judge will lead the investigation. The committee will examine possible negligence and recommend strict actions if needed.
Opposition Demands Accountability
The tragedy sparked political reactions. Opposition leaders criticized the BJP-led Gujarat government. They accused it of ignoring safety in public infrastructure.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said:
“This is more than an accident. It reflects a deeper governance failure. The government must explain how a newly renovated bridge collapsed.”
The opposition also demanded an audit of bridges across the state. Civil society groups joined the call for transparency and better safety checks.
Social media platforms reflected public anger. Hashtags like #GujaratBridgeCollapse and #FixOurInfrastructure trended throughout the day. Users demanded answers and quick justice.
Haunting Similarities to Morbi Collapse
This incident brings back memories of the Morbi bridge collapse in 2022, which killed over 140 people. That event led to outrage, promises of reform, and public apologies. Yet, this new collapse raises doubts about whether lessons were truly learned.
Infrastructure analysts pointed out that despite increased public works spending, safety remains neglected. Many believe that poor oversight at the local level contributes to repeated failures.
Government Vows Justice and Reform
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the site and met affected families. During a press conference, he said:
“We will identify and punish those responsible. No one will be spared. I have asked for the inquiry report within 10 days.”
He also promised better monitoring of future infrastructure projects. The state plans to review all bridges built or renovated in the past five years.
Conclusion: Support, Grief, and a Need for Change
As Gujarat mourns, the Prime Minister’s response brings temporary relief. Compensation can ease the immediate pain, but it won’t bring back lost lives. The collapse should not be seen as an isolated tragedy. It highlights the need for accountability, transparency, and better planning.
The families deserve justice, and the nation demands action. Structural reform, stricter audits, and honest governance must follow. Otherwise, such tragedies will keep repeating.
