Bridge collapses ‘killing 81 people’ in India
At least 81 people are feared dead after a recently renovated hanging bridge collapsed in India, it has been reported.
A rescue operation is underway in Gujarat’s Morbi district, along the western coast of the country, after the incident on Sunday evening.
Videos shared online show the bridge, which has connected the two banks of the Machchhu River for nearly 100 years, sunk in the water.
Witnesses cited by local media said there were around 400 people on the bridge at the time of the collapse.
A number of women and children can be seen clinging onto the cables, trying to save themselves from falling in the water.
Initial reports suggest 81 people are still missing and feared dead, but the true toll will not be known for awhile.
People fell in the river and there are casualties,’ said Rahul Tripathi, a senior police official at the scene.
‘We don’t have the numbers yet. The rescue operations are going on.’
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 just last week
People were seen clinging on to the railing
It is believed it gave way as it could not handle the weight of people walking on it.
Prime minister Narendra Modi, who is in his home state Gujarat for a three-day visit, tweeted: ‘I am deeply saddened by the tragedy at Morbi.
‘Talked to Gujarat Chief Minister Shri and other officials about this.
‘Relief and rescue operations are going on in full swing and all necessary assistance is being provided to the affected.’
