At least 17 workers have died in Mizoram after an under-construction railway bridge collapsed near Aizawl, India on Wednesday.
According to authorities, rescue operations are in progress as more workers are feared to be trapped under the debris. The incident took place at Sairang in Aizawl district, Indian Express reports.
Several others are feared trapped at the site, as 35-40 workers were present when the incident occurred around 10 am, about 21 km from Aizawl, they said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased persons through statements on X, formerly Twitter.
“Pained by the bridge mishap in Mizoram. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.
Rescue operations are underway and all possible assistance is being given to those affected,” the Prime Minister’s Office said, adding that an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund would be given to the next of kin of each of the deceased and Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured.
“Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. Sending gratitude to the people who have come out in large number to help with rescue operations,” Zoramthanga stated
“Shocked to learn about the tragic collapse today of an under-construction railway bridge in Mizoram, leading to loss of lives of several site workers, including some belonging to our Malda district.
“Have instructed my chief secretary to coordinate with Mizoram administration at once for rescue/ assistance operations,” Banerjee said.