A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in Mizoram as an under-construction railway bridge over the Kurung river collapsed, resulting in a significant loss of lives. This unforeseen catastrophe has shaken the region and triggered an urgent response from authorities to mitigate the aftermath.
Swift Response to the Tragedy: The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with the state administration and railway officials, swiftly mobilized to the site of the incident. As the tragedy unfolded, rescue operations were launched on a war footing to provide aid and support to those affected by the bridge collapse.
Ex-Gratia Compensation: Amid the distressing turn of events, an official announcement was made on social media by a concerned authority, revealing the compensation measures in place for the victims and their families. The compensation plan comprises ₹10 lakh for families of those who lost their lives, ₹2 lakh for individuals with grievous injuries, and ₹50,000 for those sustaining minor injuries.
Bridge Construction Location and Significance: The ill-fated bridge was in the process of being constructed over the Kurung river, positioned between Bairabi and Sairang railway stations. With a remarkable height of 104 meters, the bridge was poised to serve as a crucial link connecting the region and holding the potential to enhance connectivity between Bairabi and Sairang railway stations. Additionally, the bridge was anticipated to be a key milestone in Mizoram’s journey to link the state capital, Aizawl, with the larger national railway network.
Mizoram Chief Minister’s Expression of Grief: Mizoram’s Chief Minister, Zoramthanga, took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his deep sorrow over the incident. The chief minister lamented the loss of life caused by the collapse, informing the public that the incident had claimed the lives of at least 15 workers. Despite the profound tragedy, Zoramthanga acknowledged the ongoing rescue operations and the community’s collective efforts to aid those in need. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift recovery to those injured.
Solidarity and Support: The bridge collapse incident has evoked a strong sense of solidarity among the people of Mizoram. Local residents and individuals from the region have come forward in large numbers to contribute to the ongoing rescue operations. Their selfless assistance demonstrates the community’s resilience and unity in times of crisis.
Ongoing Investigation and Accountability: As rescue operations progress, authorities are also launching investigations to determine the causes of the bridge collapse. Identifying accountability is of paramount importance to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future and justice is served.
In conclusion, the tragic bridge collapse in Mizoram has cast a somber shadow over the region. As rescue efforts persist and investigations are initiated, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with large-scale construction projects. The solidarity shown by the community and the leadership’s response reflect the strength and compassion of the people in the face of adversity.
Sources By Agencies
