How, when and why did the Morbi cable bridge on the Machchhu river in Gujarat collapse?

MORBI, GUJARAT: The nearly century-old suspension cable bridge on the Machchhu river at Morbi in Gujarat collapsed around 6.30 pm Sunday, owing to too many people on it following its reopening just four days ago after renovation.

According to rough estimates, nearly 470 to 500 people were on the bridge when it broke and collapsed due to sheer overloading and weight of the people on it.

According to sources, the bridge was over 90 years old and was in a very dilapidated condition. A private contractor 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.

However according to locals the repair work was not up to the mark and there were no limits on the loading of the bridge. People could just walk into the bridge and fill up all the available space. There should have been limits on the loading and systems to prevent its overload.

”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.

Indian TV footage showed dozens of people clinging onto the cables and twisted remains of the collapsed bridge hanging on for dear life, as emergency teams struggled to rescue them.

Some clambered and climbed up the broken structure to try to make their way to the river banks, while others swam to safety.

“Sixty deaths have been confirmed so far,” member of parliament Mohan Kundariya told the media.

At least 30 people had also been injured, other officials said, but the unofficial figures could go into hundres.

State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi said more than 150 people were on the narrow cable-stayed bridge, a tourist attraction that drew many sight-seers during the festive season, when Diwali and Chhath Puja are celebrated. (READ THE LATEST UPDATES ON MORBI BRIDGE COLLAPSE HERE)

UPDATES: As of 11.30 pm (23.30 HRS) IST the death toll in the Morbi bridge collapse has crossed 95. It is expected to cross 120 as more bodies are to be fished out from the river.

31st Oct, 9.30 am (09.30 HRS) IST:The death toll in the Morbi bridge collapse has crossed 135 and more bodies are still being found in the river.

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.