17 dead as under-construction rail bridge collapses in Mizoram, several missing

PTI, Aug 23, 2023, 1:54 PM IST

Image: X/@ZoramthangaCM

At least 17 workers were killed on Wednesday after an under-construction railway bridge collapsed near the Sairang area of Mizoram, police said.

Several others are still 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.

Rescue and relief efforts are underway, he said.

PM Modi announces ex gratia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the family members of the deceased, and announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of the victims.

“An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on X.

Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said he was deeply saddened over the loss of lives in the incident, and expressed gratitude to all those who helped in the rescue operation.

“Under construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl, collapsed today. At least 17 workers died. Rescue operation is under progress. Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Sending gratitude to the people who have come out in large numbers to help with rescue operations,” he posted on X.