Just one week after renovations, a British-era bridge in Morbi, Gujarat, collapsed, killing at least 35 people. More than 100 other people who fell into the river are being sought after. The tragedy’s cause has been acknowledged by the government.
Around 500 people had gathered on the bridge this evening at 6:42 to perform various rites related to the Chhath puja.
100 individuals are reportedly still thought to be trapped in the Macchu river’s waters. Videos from the scene showed numerous people battling in the water and attempting to reach the bank in the dark.
“Renovation happened last week. We are also shocked. We are looking into the matter… The government takes responsibility for this tragedy,” Brijesh Merja, Gujarat’s minister for Labour and Employment told NDTV.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the Chief Minister. All top government officials are on the ground,” he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, who was in Gujarat today, “I am deeply saddened by the tragedy at Morbi. Talked to Gujarat Chief Minister Shri @Bhupendrapbjp and other officials about this. Relief and rescue operations are going on in full swing and all necessary assistance is being provided to the affected”.
A compensation of Rs 2 lakh has been announced from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of the victims.