Two years after the tragic Morbi bridge collapse in Gujarat that claimed 135 lives and left many injured, victims are still awaiting the compensation promised to them. The Gujarat High Court has directed Oreva Group, the company responsible for constructing the bridge, to expedite the compensation process through a legally binding tripartite agreement.
The bench, led by Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi, instructed the Oreva Group to establish an agreement involving the company, a special trust created under the court’s guidance, and the victims. Emphasizing urgency, the court made it clear that no further delays in the process would be tolerated.
The court had outlined specific terms for the agreement, some of which were proposed by the Oreva Group’s legal counsel but ultimately rejected. During the proceedings, the company’s lawyer informed the court about steps taken so far, including a fixed deposit of ₹9 lakh set aside for the marriage expenses of nine victims and a payment of ₹1.07 lakh to cover the medical costs of another victim.
Additionally, the lawyer noted that a severely injured woman, who had sought ₹8 lakh in compensation due to an eight-month absence from her Mumbai job, was offered only ₹2 lakh. The court, however, insisted that the full amount requested be provided. It also demanded that the Oreva Group submit proof of its monthly income to ensure adequate resources for compensation.
The high court has appointed two lawyers as court monitors to oversee the case and ensure justice for the victims. A written order on the matter is expected soon.
The October 2022 disaster saw the collapse of the suspension bridge in Morbi, plunging hundreds into the river below. In response, the Gujarat High Court facilitated the creation of a trust to manage financial assistance and meet the victims’ needs. Despite these efforts, the prolonged wait for compensation has added to the suffering of those affected.
As the legal battle continues, the victims and their families hope for swift action to address their financial and emotional losses.
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