At least nine people lost their lives and five others were injured on Wednesday after a section of a bridge collapsed in Gujarat's Vadodara district, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar River, local authorities confirmed.

According to Anil Dhameliya, a senior civil official overseeing the response, the collapse occurred in the morning hours when a segment of the bridge gave way without warning. "Several vehicles fell into the river after the bridge portion collapsed," Dhameliya told reporters at the site of the incident.

Emergency services were immediately dispatched, and a large-scale rescue operation was launched involving disaster response teams, divers, and local authorities. "So far, nine bodies have been recovered from the river, and five people have been rescued with injuries," Dhameliya said.

The scene remained tense as emergency teams combed the river in search of any remaining victims. “Our focus is on minimizing human loss. We are trying to complete the operation as quickly as possible,” Dhameliya stated, adding that the number of casualties could rise as the search continues.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the collapse, but preliminary reports suggest structural failure may be involved. Engineers and forensic teams have been dispatched to assess the site and determine whether recent monsoon rains or maintenance issues played a role.

State officials are expected to issue a formal statement and launch an inquiry into the collapse. The incident has raised questions over the condition of public infrastructure in the region, especially during the ongoing monsoon season when such risks typically increase.

The Gujarat government is reportedly preparing relief assistance for the families of the victims and those injured.

As rescue operations continue, local residents have gathered near the site, expressing shock and concern over the safety of regional transport links. Further updates are expected as officials complete their investigation and emergency services conclude their search. (ILKHA)