Kundmala Bridge Collapse: Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Orders Probe, Assures Strict Action if Negligence Found

Mumbai/Pune, June 16:In the wake of the tragic collapse of the Kundmala bridge over the Indrayani River in Talegaon, Pune district, which claimed four lives and left 51 injured, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, also the guardian minister of Pune district, has directed the district administration to conduct a thorough probe into the incident. He assured that strict action would be taken if negligence is found in the bridge’s maintenance or structural safety.

Speaking to the media, Pawar described the incident as “extremely unfortunate and painful.” He stated, “Preliminary information indicates the bridge was in a dilapidated condition. I have instructed the administration to conduct a comprehensive investigation, and if any negligence is discovered, those responsible will face stringent consequences.”

The Deputy CM also urged citizens to refrain from spreading or believing in rumours, and instead rely only on verified official information. “The government stands with the victims and their families. Medical treatment for the injured will be borne entirely by the state,” Pawar added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on an international visit, personally called Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis from Cyprus to express grief and offer all necessary assistance. “The Hon. PM assured full central support in the ongoing relief operations,” the Chief Minister’s Office said in a statement.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his condolences via social media platform X, stating, “Deeply saddened by the tragic bridge collapse. Spoke with CM Fadnavis and reviewed the ground situation. NDRF teams rushed to the site and saved several lives with remarkable promptness. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex gratia of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and confirmed that the entire cost of medical treatment for the injured would be covered by the state government.

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde confirmed that NDRF teams were on site and that he had personally spoken to the Pune District Collector to ensure immediate and complete assistance to those affected.

Senior leader Sharad Pawar emphasized the importance of vigilance during the monsoon season, especially at tourist spots. “The tourism department and local administration must ensure safety measures are in place at such sites to prevent future tragedies,” he said.

Baramati MP Supriya Sule visited the site and later met with the injured in the hospital. “This is a horrific tragedy. I spoke to the affected families and rescue personnel. The search for missing citizens is ongoing, and I pray for their safety,” she stated.

Relief and rescue operations are being conducted on a war footing, with NDRF, local police, and medical teams coordinating efforts to retrieve those still missing and provide urgent medical care.

This incident has once again raised serious questions about infrastructure safety, especially during the monsoon season, and the state administration’s preparedness for emergencies in tourist-heavy areas.