Under construction flyover collapses in Kolkata, claims 17 lives
Picture Courtesy: Associated Press
Tragedy hit Kolkata city today afternoon when an under construction flyover bridge collapsed on Vivekananda Road.
The incident claimed 17 lives and left at least 100 more injured.
The under construction flyover was located at Kolkata’s Burrabazar area. The area is famous for housing one of Asia’s biggest markets and is amongst the most densely populated areas of the city. As a result, many shoppers and street vendors were trapped under debris when the bridge collapsed.
Picture Courtesy: Associated Press
The Vivekananda flyover was supposed to be a 2.5 kilometer link between Burrabazar and Howrah station and help ease heavy traffic. Engineers are now blaming design flaws, lack of proper planning and constant delays for the collapse.
Indian Army and NDRF were called in for rescue operation and managed to save many lives. Prior to their arrival, Kolkata’s citizens managed to rescue dozens of people who were trapped under the debris.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee cut short her trip to Midnapore district and rushed back to adhere to the matter. She has announced a compensation of Rs. 5 lakhs for next of kin of deceased and Rs 2. lakhs for the injured.
Picture Courtesy: Associated Press
