Varanasi: Under-construction flyover collapses killing 12; many others trapped
In a tragic incident, at least 12 people lost their lives when an under-construction flyover collapsed in Varanasi's Cantonment area in Uttar Pradesh. Several others are feared trapped under the debris; most of them are reportedly the laborers working on the flyover. Two pillars collapsed following which a portion of the flyover fell over a bus and several vehicles, crushing them. Here's more.
NDRF teams deployed to lead the rescue operations
Five NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams are carrying out rescue operations; policemen are also present at the spot. Eight cranes are trying to lift the debris; another 20-ton lifting capacity crane will be deployed soon. Authorities said their first priority is to rescue trapped people, adding gas-cutters are also being used. An eyewitness said help came in an hour after the flyover collapsed.
The flyover was being built by the UP govt
Yogi Adityanath-led UP government was building the flyover; following the incident, the Chief Minister ordered the authorities to submit an inquiry report within 48 hours. Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya and UP Minister Neelkanth Tiwari have been directed to visit the spot. "The Chief Minister has expressed grief and directed the administration to speed up rescue operation," said another UP minister Sidharth Nath Singh.
Hope govt won't wash hands off with compensation: Akhilesh Yadav
PM Modi tweeted that he has asked officials to ensure that all possible support is provided to the affected persons. The Congress also took to Twitter to express grief saying, "We are deeply saddened by the news of the collapse of an under construction flyover in Varanasi." Meanwhile, former UP CM Akhilesh Yadav appealed to Samajwadi Party workers to assist the rescue operation teams.
