Bridge collapse in India: Over two dozen fatalities in construction site incident

An under construction railway bridge collapsed in north-eastern India on Wednesday. The incident resulted in the tragic death of at least 26 people while concerns about missing persons are growing, according to officials since around 40 workers were present at the location when the segment of the bridge collapsed.

The accident took place within the Mizoram state, close to Sairang and above the Kurung River, situated approximately 20km away from Mizoram's capital city, Aizawl. It is outlined that the precise cause behind it remains unclear, prompting the railway authorities to initiate an inquiry. As of now, three individuals have been successfully rescued, including an injured worker who had to be carefully brought down from the summit of one of the bridge's towering pillars.

A statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office points out that all possible aid is being extended to those impacted by the tragedy while the government will offer a compensation of around 200,000 rupees (£1,900; $2,400) to the families of the deceased. Additionally, Mizoram's Home Minister, Lalchamliana, expressed profound condolences to the affected families, acknowledging the inadequacy of words to reflect the sorrow caused by the unfortunate event.

The Khamrang-Sihhmui railway line, spanning 51km, had begun its construction nearly two years ago and is anticipated to complete it by December. Regrettably, accidents of this nature at construction sites are not uncommon in India, with a significant example being the collapse of a pedestrian suspension bridge in the western state of Gujarat last year, which led to the demise of more than 140 people.