Gujarat: Suspension bridge collapses in Morbi; at least 141 dead
In an unfortunate incident, 141 people have died and many are feared injured in Gujarat's Morbi district after a suspension cable bridge over the Machchhu River collapsed on Sunday evening. The number of casualties have been confirmed by Gujarat Minister Brijesh Merja. Authorities have launched rescue operations, and ambulances have been rushed to the spot to transport those injured to nearby hospitals.
About 400 people were on bridge when it collapsed
Soon after the bridge collapsed, the authorities, with assistance from locals, reportedly began rescuing those who fell into the Machchhu River. About 400 people were on the 140-year-old cable bridge at the time of the incident and at least 100 of them fell into the river, News18 reported. Notably, the bridge was reopened five days back after being closed for six months for renovation.
Here are disturbing visuals
PM Modi takes cognizance of mishap
Prime Minister Narendra Modi—who is currently on a three-day tour to the western state ahead of the Gujarat Assembly elections—has taken cognizance of the mishap. He also spoke to Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and concerned officials regarding the incident. The Prime Minister's office tweeted, "He has asked that the situation be closely and continuously monitored, and extend all possible help to those affected."
Take a look at what the PM's Office posted
Deeply saddened by the tragedy: CM Patel
"I am deeply saddened by the tragedy of the suspension bridge collapse in Morbi. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing by the system (sic)," said Bhupendra Patel. "The system has been instructed to arrange immediate treatment for the injured. I am in constant contact with the district administration in this regard," the Gujarat chief minister added.
'Very sad news,' says Delhi CM Kejriwal
Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal also expressed grief over the mishap and prayed for those who were injured. "Very sad news is coming from Gujarat. Many people are reported to have fallen into the river due to the collapse of the bridge in Morbi. I pray to God for their life and health," he tweeted in Hindi.
