NEW DELHI: In a tragic incident in Gujarat’s Anand district, an under-construction bridge which was part of the ambitious bullet train project, collapsed on Tuesday.
The collapse occurred around 5 pm, leaving several feared trapped under the debris and prompting an urgent response from local authorities.
Immediate response and rescue efforts
Anand district superintendent of police Gaurav Jasani confirmed the incident, saying, “Two workers who have been rescued have been shifted to the hospital for treatment. They are fine. It is believed that two other workers are still trapped. We are carrying out rescue operations.”
Rescue teams, including police and fire brigade officials, have been tirelessly working at the scene. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) issued an initial statement, revealing that the collapse happened at the construction site near the Mahi River, close to Vadodara. “Three laborers were trapped between concrete blocks. Rescue operations are in progress using cranes and excavators. One laborer has been rescued and is being treated in the hospital,” NHSRCL said.
Anand police and fire brigade officials rushed to the scene as soon as the collapse was reported. Rescue operations are in full swing, with teams working tirelessly to locate and save those trapped beneath the rubble. So far, two workers have been successfully rescued, but two others remain trapped under the debris.
The collapse occurred when girders used at the construction site near Vasad gave way, causing a significant portion of the bridge to come crashing down.
Project background
The bridge is part of India’s high-profile bullet train project, which aims to connect Mumbai and Ahmedabad with a high-speed rail corridor. The project, expected to revolutionize rail travel in India, has faced numerous challenges, including delays and controversies over land acquisition.
Investigation launched
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest potential structural issues, but a thorough inquiry will provide more clarity.
Further updates are expected as the situation develops.