At least 17 workers dead after an under-construction railway bridge collapsed in Sairang area, about 20 km from Aizawl in Mizoram, around 10 am. The rescue operation is underway as nearly 35-40 workers were present at the site.
A police officer said 17 bodies have been recovered from the debris so far while many others are still missing. Railway officials told ANI that nine people have been rescued so far. The National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), state administration and railway officials are undertaking rescue operations.
He said the bridge girder process was duly approved by IIT experts and a high-level enquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the matter.
Sabyasachi De, CPRO of Northeast Frontier Railways said railway officers have rushed to the spot. He told ANI that senior officials will also visit the site.
Chief Minister Zoramthanga said he is deeply saddened by the tragedy and expressed his condolences to the bereaved families.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakhs from Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the kin of workers who died when an under-construction bridge collapsed in Mizoram on Wednesday. He also announced an ex gratia compensation of Rs 2 lakh for those who suffered minor injuries.
First Published: Aug 23, 2023 12:49 PM IST
