4Officials reported on Monday that at least 134 people perished following the collapse of a suspension bridge in Gujarat, western India.
Al Jazeera reported that Gujarat’s home minister, Harsh Sanghavi, informed reporters that the death toll grew from 68 on Sunday to 132 early on Monday as search operations continued.
Authorities are concerned that the number could rise as rescue teams continue their search.
According to the information ministry, around 177 individuals have been rescued yet, while 19 are receiving medical treatment.
The bridge in Morbi that was constructed during British control in the 19th century had been closed for over six months for maintenance prior to its reopening last week.
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According to local media, hundreds of tourists enjoying Diwali (festival of lights) and Chhath Puja were on the bridge when it fell on Sunday.
The government declared an investigation into the disaster’s cause.
More than 200 rescue workers were mobilized for the search and rescue effort, according to the report.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a three-day visit to his home state Gujarat, promised a payment of 200,000 Indian rupees ($2,428) to each family of the deceased.
He tweeted that the injured will receive 50,000 Indian Rupees ($607).
India has received condolences from other nations, including the UAE, Italy, Poland, Armenia, and the Netherlands.
“Deep sorrow of Italy 🇮🇹 for the collapse of the bridge over the Machchhu river in India. We express our condolences for the victims and our utmost sympathy to their families and all the 🇮🇳 people at this tragic time,” the Italian foreign ministry tweeted.
the Italian foreign ministry tweeted.
In a tweet, the president’s media division stated that the president was startled and disturbed by the tragic tragedy.
“The Govt & people of #SriLanka join me in extending deepest condolences to the Govt. & people of #India, especially the families of the citizens who lost their lives.”
