At least 30 people killed in bridge collapse in India

At least 30 people were killed and dozens critically injured when a suspension bridge in India’s western Gujarat state collapsed on Sunday.

“We can confirm that 30 people have lost their lives, many have been rescued from the river, and some are still missing,” said Amit Jhala, a senior administrator at the state-run hospital to where victims were taken.

More than 400 people were on the bridge over the Machhu River in the town of Morbi at the time of the collapse, local TV channel Zee News reported.

Footage broadcast by the TV channel showed dozens of people clinging onto the cables of the collapsed bridge as emergency teams struggled to rescue them.

Press Trust of India news agency reported the bridge gave way as it could not handle the number of people on it.

The 230-metre historic bridge was built during British rule in the 19th century. It had been closed for renovation for six months and was reopened for the public last week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in his home state Gujarat for a three-day visit, said he has directed the state chief minister to mobilise teams urgently for the rescue operation.

“He has sought urgent mobilisation of teams for rescue ops. He has asked that the situation be closely and continuously monitored, and extend all possible help to those affected,” Modi’s office said.

Related
Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *