Gujarat : In a first, Gambhira Bridge Tanker to Be Lifted Using Air Balloon Technology 

Anand, Gujarat – Twenty-five days after the catastrophic Gambhira bridge collapse that claimed 21 lives, a remarkable and unprecedented recovery effort is underway. The oil tanker, which has been hanging precariously from the broken Gambhira bridge since July 9, is set to be removed using air balloon technology — a first in Gujarat and quite possibly in India.

A team of marine engineering experts from Porbandar’s Vishwakarma Group has taken up this high-risk and high-tech challenge. The operation involves pneumatic balloons, hydraulic jacks, humatic roller bags, and horizontal cantilever systems, all deployed from the riverbed — not the bridge — to ensure safety and precision.

“This is an extremely complex operation, and we cannot take any chances,” said Anand Collector Pravin Chaudhary, who is supervising the entire recovery effort. “The truck is on a broken span. No cranes can reach it. This technology offers the safest and most feasible solution.”

According to Dr. Nikul Patel, Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering and an expert consulted on the operation, the process is based on Archimedes’ principle and requires careful calculations of buoyant force and load stability.

“We are essentially using the river’s bed as the base to install large capacity balloons filled with propane gas,” explained Dr. Patel. “Once the balloons are secured under and around the tanker, they’ll be inflated to lift it gently. It’s a balance of engineering, physics, and patience.”

He stressed that lifting such a massive object — estimated between 10,000 to 15,000 kg — requires the lifting force to exceed the tanker’s weight. “That’s why two large balloons will be used for better balance. Any imbalance could result in a secondary accident.”

Dr. Patel added, “I haven’t come across any such air balloon-based heavy vehicle recovery in India. If this succeeds, it will be a benchmark for future emergency response situations.”

The Marine Emergency Response Centre of Vishwakarma Group, known for maritime salvage and ship recovery, is spearheading the execution. Since the bridge’s bearings are damaged and the surrounding area unstable, all operations are being done remotely, with strict no-go zones around the bridge.

Collector Chaudhary emphasized, “Our top priority is safety. No person will be on or near the bridge during the lift. The operation will take about five hours, with enough gas secured to keep the balloons stable through the process.”

The tragic Gambhira bridge collapse had sparked outrage and demands for accountability. But this pioneering rescue method is now drawing national attention for its innovation and engineering boldness.

If successful, the balloon-lift of the tanker will not only mark a first in India but also open new frontiers in disaster recovery methods in challenging terrains where conventional cranes and winches fall short.

“We are combining science with courage,” said Chaudhary. “This is more than a rescue — it’s a statement that Gujarat is ready to innovate in crisis.”