Gujarat Bridge Collapse: CM Bhupendra Patel Announces ₹4 Lakh Relief for Victims’ Families
Following the tragic bridge collapse in Gujarat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ₹50,000 for those injured. The announcement comes as rescue operations continue and authorities begin a deeper investigation into the cause of the disaster.
Gujarat Bridge
The incident occurred when a portion of a road bridge collapsed suddenly, sending vehicles and people into the river below. The collapse triggered panic and immediate deployment of emergency services. Rescue teams, including NDRF personnel, were rushed to the scene and operations are still underway to recover bodies and locate any missing individuals.
Compensation Package
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who reviewed the situation and met with officials at the site, assured full government support to the affected families. The announced relief includes:
- ₹4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased person
- ₹50,000 for those who sustained injuries in the collapse
- Possible additional support in the coming days based on needs and rehabilitation assessments
The Chief Minister stated that the compensation would be disbursed quickly and without bureaucratic delays to ensure timely support for the victims.
Investigation and Accountability
An inquiry has been launched to investigate the structural integrity and maintenance history of the bridge. Initial reports suggest possible structural failure, but authorities are awaiting technical assessments. Bhupendra Patel assured that strict action would be taken if negligence or corruption is found in the construction or upkeep of the bridge.
Statewide Bridge Safety Review
In response to the incident, the Gujarat government has ordered a safety audit of all major bridges across the state. The Public Works Department will conduct load-bearing assessments and inspect the structural condition of older bridges. Urgent repairs and reinforcements will be prioritized to avoid future tragedies.
CM’s Statement
CM Bhupendra Patel, while addressing the media, said, “The government stands firmly with the victims and their families. We will ensure accountability and strengthen our infrastructure to prevent such incidents. Our focus right now is on rescue, relief, and rehabilitation.”
