Under-Construction Bridge Collapse Claims 17 Lives in Mizoram
Written by Sanjay Kumar
Mizoram has been struck by a tragic incident as an under-construction railway bridge collapsed in the Sairang area, approximately 20 km away from Aizawl. The collapse has led to the loss of lives, with at least 17 workers confirmed dead and fears rising about the possibility of more individuals being trapped beneath the debris.
The gravity of the situation becomes more evident considering that around 35-40 workers were present at the construction site when the unfortunate incident occurred around 10 am. This alarming event took place about 21 km away from Aizawl, according to the information provided by the police, as reported by PTI.
The rescue teams have been working diligently to navigate through the wreckage and provide relief. As of now, the recovery efforts have led to the retrieval of 17 bodies from the debris, but the count of those missing remains uncertain, leaving many families in distress and uncertainty.
The Chief Minister of Mizoram expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families who have lost their loved ones due to this tragic accident. He also extended his wishes for a swift recovery for those who have been injured in the collapse.
Under construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl collapsed today; atleast 17 workers died: Rescue under progress.
Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the… pic.twitter.com/IbmjtHSPT7
— Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) August 23, 2023
Using the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, the Chief Minister conveyed his thoughts, stating, “Today, an under-construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl, collapsed, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 17 workers’ lives. The rescue operation is currently in progress. This incident deeply saddens and affects us.
My sincere condolences go out to all the bereaved families. I also send my best wishes for a speedy recovery to those who have been injured. I am immensely grateful to all the individuals who have come forward in large numbers to actively participate in the ongoing rescue operations.”
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, shared in the collective sorrow caused by the bridge collapse in Mizoram. He conveyed his condolences to the families who have lost their beloved members in this unfortunate event. In addition, Prime Minister Modi took a step forward by announcing financial assistance to provide some relief to the affected families.
Pained by the bridge mishap in Mizoram. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. Rescue operations are underway and all possible assistance is being given to those affected.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 23, 2023
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office on platform X, “The news of the bridge mishap in Mizoram is distressing. My heartfelt sympathies are with those who have lost their dear ones. I hope for the prompt recovery of those who have been injured. The ongoing rescue efforts are being extended full support.
To assist the families of the deceased, an ex-gratia amount of Rs. 2 lakhs will be provided from the PMNRF fund for each deceased individual. Additionally, Rs. 50,000 will be given to each injured person.”
Amidst this tragedy, railway authorities are also taking swift action. Sabyasachi De, the Chief Public Relations Officer of NF Railways, informed ANI that railway officials have swiftly responded to the situation by heading to the site of the incident. Furthermore, senior officials from the Northeast Frontier Railway are set to visit the site, underlining the seriousness with which the authorities are approaching this unfortunate event.
