Morbi bridge collapse: Rajkot BJP MP loses 12 relatives in tragedy

As many as 12 members of a BJP MP lost their lives in the tragic Morbi bridge collapse in Gujarat.

Speaking to India Today, Rajkot MP Mohanbhai Kalyanji Kundariya said he lost relatives from his sister's extended family. Out of 12 deceased 5 are children.

The minister added that an investigation will be carried to look into what led to the tragedy and a strict action will be taken against those responsible.

Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF continue the search and rescue for those still missing.

The death toll in the mishap has crossed 130 mark with rescue personnel recovering more bodies from the Machchhu river, a police official said.

The over a century-old bridge, which had reopened five days ago after extensive repairs and renovation, was crammed with people when it collapsed around 6.30 pm on Sunday.

Eyewitnesses said there were several women and children on the British era “hanging bridge” when it snapped, plunging them into the water below.

Some people were seen jumping on the bridge and pulling its big wires, an eyewitness said, adding the bridge may have collapsed due to the “huge crowd” on it.

After the collapse, all that remained of the bridge was part of the metal carriageway hanging down from one end into the dark water, its thick cables snapped in places.

At the local hospital people formed a human chain to hold back crowds and keep the road clear for ambulances which brought those rescued.

(With inputs from PTI)

Also watch: Morbi bridge may not have got civic bodies' certificate before reopening: report