Sixty people have been killed after a pedestrian Bridge Collapsed in the western state of Gujarat in India. Hundreds of people were plunged into the river as reported by one of the officials.
According to authorities approximately one hundred and fifty people were on the suspension bridge over the Machhu River in the town of Morbi at the time of the collapse.
From CCTV footage dozens of people could be seen clinging onto the rails and remains of the collapsed bridge while emergency teams were struggling to rescue them. Some clambered up the broken structure to try to make their way to the river banks, while others swam to safety.
So far sixty people have been confirmed dead from the incident said member of parliament Mohan Kundariya. Other 30 people had been injured.
State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi said more than 150 people were on the narrow cable pedestrian bridge, a tourist attraction that drew many sight-seers during the festive season, when Diwali and Chhath Puja are celebrated.
The historic Bridge which is two hundred and thirty meters was built during British rule in the 19th century. It was closed recently for renovation for close to 6 months and was reopened for the public last week.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed the state chief minister to mobilise rescue teams urgently for the operation.
The state government has formed a five-member special investigation team to conduct an investigation into the disaster.
