Vadodara companies offer transport, shift relief to workers after Gambhira bridge collapse

Vadodara: In response to the hardship being faced by workers following the collapse of the Mujpur-Gambhira bridge, companies in Padra taluka have begun implementing relief measures. These actions follow the intervention of the District Industries Centre and the Gujarat Labour Department.

The bridge collapse has disrupted the daily commute for around 4,000 workers from Anand district who are employed across 53 industrial units in Padra, located on the Vadodara side of the Mahi River. These units are involved in the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and mechanical components.

To address the situation, many companies have arranged private transport for their workers, with several directing contractors to provide dedicated vehicles. In addition, flexible working hours have been introduced to accommodate longer travel times due to route diversions.

Some firms have also relaxed attendance requirements—for instance, reducing the minimum working days from 25 to 22 per month—and have shifted affected workers to general shifts for greater convenience. A few companies are also considering increasing vehicle allowances to ease the financial burden of extended travel.

Authorities stated that these steps are aimed at ensuring worker welfare and maintaining industrial productivity while long-term infrastructure solutions are explored. DeshGujarat