Cars plunge into river killing 9 people as section of 40-year-old bridge collapses in India
IndependentJUL 9
This tragic incident exposes decades of administrative negligence and corruption in Gujarat's infrastructure management. Despite repeated warnings from locals about the bridge's deteriorating condition and its dangers, authorities failed to take preventive action. The "Gujarat Model" has proven to be nothing more than a facade hiding systemic corruption and decay in critical infrastructure projects.
The bridge was properly maintained, with regular repairs conducted as needed since its construction in 1985. The state government had already approved a new $2 billion bridge project three months before this unfortunate incident. This was an unforeseen structural failure despite proper maintenance protocols, and the government responded swiftly with rescue operations and compensation for affected families.