Indian bridge collapse leaves over seventy dead

Over 70 people have lost their lives after a suspension footbridge collapsed into the Macchu river in Morbi town, Gujarat, India.

The bridge which collapsed on Sunday, plunged hundreds of people into the river with as many as 400 people said to have been on the bridge at the time, BBC reports.

A recent update by The Times of India showed that a total of 78 deaths have now been confirmed.

The incident was said to have occurred amid impatient of tourists on the bridge due to the Diwali vacation.

Videos online showed several people, including women and children, attempting to climb the net of the collapsed structure as emergency personnel tried to rescue them.

Emergency responders from neighbouring districts were reported to have been sent to the scene to help with rescue efforts.

The 230-metre historical bridge was built during British rule in the 19th century.

It was said to have been closed for renovation for six months and was only reopened to the public days ago.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “deeply saddened by the tragedy”, adding that rescue operations are ongoing.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragedy at Morbi. Talked to Gujarat Chief Minister Shri and other officials about this. Relief and rescue operations are going on in full swing and all necessary assistance is being provided to the affected,” he wrote.

A tweet from the account of Modi’s office said the prime minister has announced compensation for the injured, as well as the next of kin of those who have died.

“PM @narendramodi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each of those who lost their lives in the mishap in Morbi. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000,” the tweet reads.