Lagatar24 Desk
Aizwal, Aug 23: A railway bridge that was being built and under construction near the Sairang region of Mizoram collapsed on Wednesday, resulting in the tragic loss of life for at least 17 workers, police said.
Since 35 to 40 workers were there when the incident happened at 10 am, about 21 kilometres from Aizawl, they said that several more people are still believed to be stuck at the scene.
“Seventeen bodies have been recovered from the debris so far. Many others are still missing,” a police officer said.
He added that rescue and relief operations are in progress.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased individuals and declared compensation/ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the family members of the victims.
“An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on X.
Pained by the bridge mishap in Mizoram. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. Rescue operations are underway and all possible assistance is being given to those affected.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 23, 2023
The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, expressed his sadness at the incident’s fatalities and his appreciation for everyone who assisted in the rescue effort.
“Under construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl, collapsed today. At least 17 workers died. Rescue operation is under progress. Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. Sending gratitude to the people who have come out in large numbers to help with rescue operations,” he posted on X.
Under construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl collapsed today; atleast 17 workers died: Rescue under progress.
Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the… pic.twitter.com/IbmjtHSPT7
— Zoramthanga (@ZoramthangaCM) August 23, 2023
Additionally, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister of Railways, stated on X, “Grieved by the unfortunate incident in Mizoram. NDRF, state administration and railway officials are at the site. Rescue operation on war footing. Ex-gratia compensation, Rs 10 lakh in case of death, Rs 2 lakh for grievous and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries.”
Grieved by the unfortunate incident in Mizoram. NDRF, state administration and railway officials are at the site. Rescue operation on war footing.
Ex-gratia compensation:
₹10 Lakh in case of death,
₹2 Lakh towards grievous and ₹50,000 for minor injuries.— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) August 23, 2023
