More than 60 people dead in Morbi bridge collapse, hundreds injured

MORBI, GUJARAT: As of 10 pm on Sunday at the time of publishing this story, more than 60 people have been found or fished out of the river dead and hundreds more are imjured.

The nearly century-old suspension bridge on the Machchhu river collapsed around 6.30 pm owing to too many people on it following its reopening just four days ago after renovation.

”Cable bridge collapse in Gujarat points to the gross negligence of the BJP government. Its repair was said to be done five days back. Where from the contractors got this courage? The compensation needs to be increased. A reliable enquiry should take place to unveil political involvement,” CPI leader Binoy Viswam tweeted.

A private operator had carried out the repair work of the bridge for nearly six months before it was reopened to the public on the Gujarati New Year day celebrated on October 26. (READ THE LATEST UPDATES ON MORBI BRIDGE COLLAPSE HERE)

(With inputs from PTI)

UPDATE: 31st October, 10.45 am (10.45 HRS) IST: The death toll in the Morbi bridge collapse has risen to almost 148, with more bodies being found as rescue work continues. Nearly 190 injured persons have been either admitted to hospitals or treated and sent home, after first aid and other treatment.