Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep sorrow over Sunday's bridge collapse on the Indrayani River in Pune's Talegaon area, confirming he had spoken with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to assess the situation. In a post on X, Shah praised the rapid response of NDRF teams who "saved several lives with remarkable promptness" while extending condolences to bereaved families and wishing recovery for the injured.
Taking to X, HM Shah wrote, "Deeply saddened by the tragic incident of the bridge collapse on the Indrayani River in Talegaon, Pune. Spoke with Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis and inquired about the present situation on the ground."
"NDRF teams posted nearby quickly rushed to the site, joined the rescue operation, and saved several lives with remarkable promptness. Heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured," he added.
The colonial-era bridge at Kundmala, a tourist hotspot, collapsed amid heavy rainfall that had swollen river levels. Authorities fear 25-30 people may have been swept away when the structure gave way. While two fatalities have been confirmed, rescue teams including local police, disaster response units, and villagers continue search operations complicated by strong currents.
CM Fadnavis earlier announced six critical cases among 32 injured persons hospitalised, with six successful rescues so far. He has directed continuous monitoring by senior officials including the Divisional Commissioner en route to the site. The state will provide ₹5 lakh compensation to families of the deceased and cover all medical treatment costs for survivors.
Emergency response remains intensified with 18-20 ambulances, fire tenders, and boats deployed. The search and rescue operation by NDRF is ongoing.
