DOZENS of people are feared dead after a bridge collapsed at a tourist spot in India.
Around 500 people were on the almost 100-year-old suspension bridge over the Machchhu River in Morbi, Gujarat, when it crashed into the water, witnesses said.
Rescue workers are battling to save people who plunged into the river and those trapped.
Shocking pictures from the scene show survivors desperately trying to scramble to safety.
Meanwhile, footage shared on social media shows people hanging off the collapsed footbridge and others frantically attempt to cling onto the structure.
The historical bridge had been closed for renovation work for six months and had only reopened to the public just four days ago.
More world news
Chilling pic shows 100k revellers in 12ft alley as 154 die in Seoul horror crush
Boy, 12, found on river bank by dad after stabbed to death as mum arrested
Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel said authorities are monitoring the situation.
He tweeted: "I am deeply saddened by the tragedy of suspension bridge collapse in Morbi.
"Relief and rescue operations are ongoing by the system. The system has been instructed to arrange immediate treatment for the injured.
"I am in constant contact with the district administration in this regard."
Most read in The Sun
Simon Cowell reveals becoming a dad saved him from 'dark' obsession
At least 153 Halloween revellers killed in horror stampede in Seoul
Andrea McLean reveals major feud among Loose Women co-stars as fans shocked
My £80k car ferried passengers about for 200 miles after I left it at airport
Patel added that compensation will be given to the families of those killed.
He added: "I express my condolences to the families of the citizens who lost their lives in the tragedy of Morbi.
"The state government will provide Rs 4 lakh (£4,000) to the family of each deceased and Rs 50,000 (£500) to the injured."
It is feared around 60 people may have died in the incident, reports News18.
Rahul Tripathi, a senior police official at the scene, told Reuters: "People fell in the river and there are casualties.
"We don't have the numbers yet. The rescue operations are going on."
Brijesh Merja, Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Employment (Independent Charge) of Gujarat, said authorities have taken "responsibility" for the incident.
He told NDTV: "The government takes responsibility for this tragedy.
"The PM has spoken to the Chief Minister. All top officials are on ground.
"The renovation happened last week. We are also shocked. We are looking into the matter."
The 230-metre historic bridge was built during British rule in the 19th century.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in his home state Gujarat for a three-day visit, said he has directed the state chief minister to mobilise teams urgently for the rescue operation.
Read More on The Sun
I’m a mum-of-6 and have strict rules to cope – they sound crazy but I don’t care
I have big boobs and tried the viral backless Amazon dress – my jaw dropped
Indian President Droupadi Murmu tweeted: "The tragedy in Morbi, Gujarat has left me worried.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the affected people. Relief and rescue efforts will bring succour to the victims."
Source: Read Full Article
