Ahmedabad: Gujarat has faced a series of devastating incidents over the years, each exposing lapses in oversight and safety enforcement. Despite repeated promises of “strict action” and enhanced safety measures, these tragedies continue, raising questions about the effectiveness of the state’s response.
A History of Calamities and Unfulfilled Promises
Below is a look at some of the major incidents prior to the recent Gambhira Bridge collapse, where authorities pledged rigorous measures:
Kankaria Amusement Park Accident (2019): A joyride collapse at Ahmedabad’s Kankaria Amusement Park claimed multiple lives and left many injured. The incident spotlighted inadequate maintenance and safety protocols. Authorities vowed to take strict action against those responsible.
Surat Takshashila Fire (2019): A fire at Surat’s Takshashila Arcade killed 22 students, with investigations revealing blatant violations of fire safety regulations. Promises were made to enforce stricter compliance with fire safety standards.
Bharuch Hospital Blaze (2021): A fire in the COVID-19 ward of Bharuch Welfare Hospital, a dedicated facility for virus patients, killed 18 people, including 16 patients and two nurses. While the exact cause remained unclear, concerns about electrical faults and lax fire safety measures surfaced. Statewide hospital fire safety audits were ordered.
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Ahmedabad Shrey Hospital Fire (2020): During the COVID-19 pandemic, fires at hospitals in Bharuch and Ahmedabad resulted in patient deaths. Both incidents exposed deficient fire safety systems, prompting investigations and directives for corrective action.
Morbi Bridge Collapse (2022): The collapse of a historic suspension bridge over the Machhu River in Morbi killed over 130 people. Investigations revealed significant negligence in bridge maintenance and repairs. Authorities ordered a comprehensive probe and promised stringent measures.
Vadodara Boat Capsizing (2024): A boat carrying schoolchildren overturned in Vadodara’s Harni Lake, claiming the lives of children and teachers. Overcrowding and the absence of life jackets were cited as primary causes, alongside safety rule violations. The government announced plans for strict enforcement.
Rajkot Game Zone Fire (2024): A massive fire at an illegally operated TRP game zone in Rajkot claimed over 30 lives. The facility lacked compliance with fire safety regulations. Authorities responded by ordering stricter oversight of similar venues statewide.
Gambhira Bridge Collapse (July 2025): The recent collapse of the Gambhira Bridge between Padra and Jambusar in Vadodara killed over 10 people and sent vehicles plunging into the Mahisagar River. Concerns about the bridge’s maintenance and construction quality have surfaced, with officials once again pledging “strict action.”
Are Promises Enough?
A troubling pattern emerges from these incidents: a tragedy occurs, systemic failures are exposed, public outcry follows, and the government responds with assurances of accountability and prevention. Yet, questions persist about whether these measures are effectively implemented, if culprits face lasting consequences, and whether lessons from past tragedies translate into meaningful reforms. The hope remains that the Gambhira Bridge disaster will spur genuine action to prevent such losses in Gujarat’s future.