Vadodara: The tragic incident of a building collapse in Vadodara, Gujarat, has resulted in 18 confirmed fatalities, with two individuals still unaccounted for.

Rescue operations are actively underway following the collapse of the Gambhira Bridge, a 40-year-old structure over the Mahisagar River in Padra. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, and local authorities are diligently searching the area.

As of now, 18 bodies have been retrieved, while efforts continue to locate the two missing persons.

Authorities have reported that debris from two trucks, a pickup, an Eco car, and a rickshaw has been extracted from the riverbed.

The bridge, which serves as a crucial connection between Saurashtra and South Gujarat, collapsed on Wednesday, causing seven vehicles to plunge into the water. One truck was left precariously suspended from the damaged structure, intensifying the urgency of the rescue efforts.

MLA Chaitanya Singh Jhala, who visited the site, emphasized that the repercussions would extend beyond the four government officials already suspended.

He stated, "Anyone found negligent will face severe consequences. This bridge is vital for the region. The government is working on an alternative route and a long-term solution with urgency."

The suspended officials include engineers from the Roads and Buildings Department, who were deemed responsible in the initial investigation ordered by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

Reports indicate that over ten individuals sustained injuries during the collapse and are currently receiving medical care in hospitals located in Padra and Vadodara.

The two missing individuals are residents of Bamangam village in Anand district.

A high-level technical committee appointed by the Gujarat government is leading the investigation into the Gambhira Bridge collapse, focusing on lapses in structural maintenance, inspection protocols, and administrative oversight.

Preliminary findings have indicated significant negligence regarding repair history and load assessments, leading to the immediate suspension of four officials from the Roads and Buildings Department.

The investigation is now examining procurement records, contractor accountability, and whether previous warnings from locals and engineers were overlooked.