At least six labourers were killed and several others injured after a portion of an under-construction bridge collapsed in Uttar Pradesh’s Hamirpur district during a severe storm late Thursday night. The tragic incident took place near the Betwa River when strong winds and heavy rain lashed the area around 2 am.
According to officials, the bridge was being constructed between Morakandar Parsani and Naithi village in the Kurara area of Hamirpur. Workers were present at the construction site when a slab, along with a bridge pier and shuttering structure, suddenly gave way. Massive concrete debris and iron structures crashed down on the labourers working below.
Police and rescue teams rushed to the spot soon after the collapse. SDRF personnel and local administration officials launched rescue operations fearing that more workers could still be trapped under the rubble. Several injured labourers were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials said the death toll could rise as rescue work continues.
Initial reports suggest that the intense storm and heavy rainfall may have weakened the temporary support structure of the bridge, leading to the collapse. However, authorities have not ruled out possible negligence or structural flaws. An investigation has been ordered to determine the exact reason behind the accident.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has reportedly taken cognisance of the incident and directed officials to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured workers. He also instructed district authorities to speed up rescue operations and submit a detailed report on the collapse.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over safety standards at infrastructure construction sites across the country. Local residents and workers’ families alleged that safety measures at the site were inadequate and demanded strict action against those responsible.
