17 Dead As Under-Construction Rail Bridge Collapses In Mizoram

At least 17 workers were killed on Wednesday after an under-construction railway bridge collapsed near Sairang area of Mizoram, police said, as reported by news agency PTI.

Several others are feared trapped at the site, as 35-40 workers were present when the incident occurred around 10 am, about 21 km from Aizawl, they said.

"Seventeen bodies have been recovered from the debris so far... many others are still missing," a police officer said.

Sabyasachi De, CPRO of NF Railways told ANI that railway officers have rushed to the spot and senior officials of Northeast Frontier Railway will also visit the site.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his sorrow regarding the collapse of the bridge and has declared a financial aid of Rs 2 Lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased, along with Rs 50,000 for the injured.

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) released a statement expressing, "The bridge accident in Mizoram is deeply distressing. Our condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives. We wish a swift recovery to the injured individuals. Ongoing rescue efforts are being diligently conducted, and comprehensive support is being provided to those affected. In alignment with this, an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from PMMRF will be extended to the next of kin of each deceased individual, while Rs. 50,000 will be offered to those who are injured, as conveyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.''

Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Zoramthanga and assured them all possible assistance after 17 workers were killed when an under-construction railway bridge collapsed in the state.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed grief and extended her condolensces over the incident. Taking to social media, Banerjee said,"Shocked to learn about the tragic collapse today of an under-construction railway bridge in Mizoram, leading to loss of lives of several site workers, including some belonging to our Malda district. Have instructed my chief secretary to coordinate with Mizoram administration at once for rescue/ assistance operations. Malda district administration has been asked to reach out to the bereaved families for extending all possible help. We shall give due compensation asap to the next of kin of the affected families. Solidarity to the distressed, condolences to the families of the deceased. Situation under watch."