The National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) officially ended its rescue work on Monday at the site where a bridge collapsed over the Indrayani River in Pune’s Kundamala area.

In a statement, the NDRF saidthe operation was stopped because all missing people had been found. "All missing persons were accounted for late last night, so as per the district administration's order, the rescue work has ended," the statement said.

The iron bridge collapsed while over 150 tourists were on it, leading to the death of four people and injuring 50 others. The incident took place in Kundamala, a lesser-known but popular tourist spot around 30 km from Pune, near Talegaon Dabhade in Maval taluka.

District Collector Jitendra Dudi said the NDRF team reached the spot within 20 minutes of getting the first alert.Around 50 people were injured in the collapse, out of which 18 needed hospitaltreatment. The state government has announced ₹5 lakh as compensation for the families of those who died and will cover all medical expenses of the injured.

The bridge was around 30 years old and meant only for pedestrians. However, two-wheelers also used it, affecting its safety. Minister for Water Resources Girish Mahajan said tenders for building a new bridge had been approved, but the work was delayed due to rains.

The area had seen a rise in visitors as the Indrayani river swelled due to rainfall. The spot is known for its natural gorge, whirlpools, and waterfalls. Just last week, the district administration issued a warning, asking people to avoid water bodies during the monsoon season.

About the bridge collapse

The accident took place in Pune’s Kundamala area when a bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed on Sunday. The bridge was filled with over 150 tourists when it gave way, causing confusion and injuries. Four people died in the incident, and 50 others were injured. The area, located about 30 km from Pune and near Talegaon Dabhade in Maval taluka, is a known tourist spot.

The reason behind the collapse is still being looked into, but early reports say the bridge may not have been strong enough to carry a large number of people.The incident has raised questions about safety rules at tourist places and the state of old or weak structures. Authorities are expected to take steps to check the safety of similar bridges in the area.