A British-era bridge in Maharashtra collapsed on Wednesday, following incessant rain, leading to a few vehicles going missing. Some bodies have now been recovered from the area. Here is all we know about the incident so far:
- The bridge was in the Raigad district of Maharashtra and on the Mumbai-Goa highway, connecting the cities of Mahad and Poladpur.
- The bridge was said to be decades old, belonging to the British era.
- The bridge collapsed at 2 a.m. on Wednesday.
- Two buses with 22 people on board are said to have been lost in the Savitri river, which was in spate and flowing under the bridge.
- Raigad District Collector Sheetal Ugale said two bodies have been recovered so far.
- A National Disaster Response Force team of 50 personnel and four divers was rushed to the spot.
- The Indian Coast Guard has also deployed Chetak helicopters in the search-and-rescue (SAR) mission.
- The Indian Navy has deployed a Sea King 42C all-weather aircraft with a diving team and a Sea King 42B helicopter in the area.
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis rushed to the spot. He also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to him regarding the incident, assuring all help from the Centre.
- Subsequently, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said in the Lok Sabha the Centre stood with the Maharashtra government. Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu also extended the help of his ministry.
- A team of doctors has also been rushed to the spot.
- Information about the incident can be taken from the toll-free numbers: 0214-1222001 or 0214-222118 or 0214-1222025.
Keep tuned in for more updates here.
