A cable bridge collapsed in the Machchhu river in Gujarat’s Morbi district on Sunday evening, killing at least 32 people and injuring several others, according to a local civil hospital official. According to preliminary reports, the cable bridge was reopened five days ago following renovation.
According to Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi, over 70 people have been rescued and taken to hospitals. He also stated that the majority of those rescued are no longer in danger.
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After the bridge collapsed, several people fell into the river. Rescue efforts are currently underway.
#WATCH | Several people feared to be injured after a cable bridge collapsed in the Machchhu river in Gujarat’s Morbi area today. Further details awaited. pic.twitter.com/hHZnnHm47L
— ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2022
The administration is rescuing people who fell into the river after the bridge collapsed, with the assistance of locals.
The state government has announced an ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh for each deceased person and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the accident.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi and Gujarat Health Minister Rishikesh Patel will depart for Morbi shortly. Two National Disaster Management Force (NDRF) teams have also left Morbi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a three-day visit to Gujarat ahead of Assembly elections, spoke with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other officials about the incident shortly after it became public. The prime minister has requested that the situation be closely and continuously monitored, and that all possible assistance be extended to those affected.
PM @narendramodi spoke to Gujarat CM @Bhupendrapbjp and other officials regarding the mishap in Morbi. He has sought urgent mobilisation of teams for rescue ops. He has asked that the situation be closely and continuously monitored, and extend all possible help to those affected.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 30, 2022
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke with Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi and other state officials, stating that the local administration is working on relief efforts. Shah also stated that the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) will be arriving soon.
