Kali River Bridge Collapse In Karwar: Lorry Driver Says, 'I Am Surprised To Be Out Of Danger'

In a shocking incident early this morning, a 40-year-old bridge on National Highway 66 in Karwar, Karnataka, collapsed, causing a lorry to fall into the Kali River. The bridge, which connects Karwar to Goa, gave way around 1 a.m. while the lorry was crossing.

Details of the Incident:

The lorry, registered TN-36 B-9997 and owned by Tamil Nadu-based SSM Transport Company, was traveling from Goa to Hubli at the time of the collapse. The vehicle, which was empty after delivering a load of coal, was driven by 37-year-old Murugan from Yashapatti village in Dharmapuri district. Murugan managed to break the front glass of the lorry and climb on top of the cabin, where he shouted for help.

"I am deeply shocked by the incident. Thanks to everyone who rescued me," said Bala Murugan, the lorry driver. He is currently recovering from shock at a local hospital.

The collapse of the Kodibag Bridge has raised concerns about potential additional vehicles involved. Karwar police have been investigating to determine if there were any casualties or other vehicles affected by the collapse. According to Murugan, no other vehicles were on the bridge at the time.

Driver's Statement:

"I was driving alone when the accident occurred. I am surprised to be out of danger, and the whole incident has left me in shock. I am thankful to everyone who helped rescue me," Murugan said.

Investigation and Rescue Operations:

Karwar police have filed an additional case against IRB (Infrastructure and Development Corporation) in connection with the accident, following an earlier voluntary case.

The rescue operation is ongoing, with no reports of missing persons or casualties to date. The district administration has confirmed that there have been no fatalities related to the collapse.

The collapse of the bridge, which had been in use for 39 years, has disrupted traffic on National Highway 66, severing the link between Karwar and Goa. The new bridge, constructed as part of highway development, is currently being inspected for safety as a precautionary measure.

Search operations continue in the river, led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), coastal police, and local fishermen. Authorities are investigating whether any other vehicles or locals were affected by the collapse.

As the investigation unfolds, traffic in the area has come to a standstill, with many commuters waiting near the site. The police have also filed a case against the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the IRB company responsible for the bridge's maintenance at the Karwar Nagar police station.