Cable bridge collapses in Gujarat, at least 60 dead

A cable bridge collapsed in Machchhu river of Morbi area in Gujarat on Sunday killing at 60 people and injuring several others.

Gujarat panchayat minister Brijesh Merja, who is present at the spot, confirmed the toll to news agency ANI.

Rajkot MLA Mohanbhai Kalyanji Kundariya said, “More than 60 bodies found of whom many are children, women and elderly. Rest have been rescued. The NDRF’s rescue operations are underway. We’re taking this matter very seriously, it’s very saddening,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.

“Machinery present at the spot to pump out the water so that we can figure out the bodies underneath as there’s a lot of silt. I believe the bridge got overloaded and that led to the incident. Many teams engaged in rescue, CM will arrive shortly,” the MP further said.

Earlier, Gujarat director general of police Ashish Bhatia said, “Presently rescue operations are on and a number of people have been taken to safety. The death figure so far is around 40 and this number could go higher.”

Some local reports said there could be many tourists among the victims. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel have announced ex gratia for the family of the deceased and aid for those injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel and other officials regarding the mishap. A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said Modi sought urgent mobilisation of teams for rescue operations.

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