Bridge collapse in Jammu traps four labourers; rescue operation underway

Pic/PTI

A portion of an under-construction bridge collapsed in the Bantalab area of Jammu on Friday, trapping several labourers under the debris and triggering an urgent rescue operation by disaster response teams, reported ANI.

Six labourers trapped, two rescued so far

According to local officials, six labourers were initially trapped when the structure gave way. Former Sarpanch Rajdev Singh said that two workers have been rescued, while four remain trapped under the debris, reported ANI.

Rescue teams are continuing efforts to reach those still stuck, with authorities expressing hope that the remaining labourers will be brought out safely.

NDRF and SDRF teams lead rescue efforts

Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed at the site. Heavy machinery, including excavators, is being used to remove debris and speed up the operation, reported ANI.

Officials said security forces and local authorities are coordinating closely to ensure the rescue is carried out efficiently and safely.

Local leaders present at site

Legislator Sham Lal Sharma also reached the spot and reviewed the situation. He said the bridge was an old structure undergoing strengthening work after its foundation had become exposed, reported ANI.

According to Sharma, excavation work was underway as part of the repair process. He suggested that vibrations caused by vehicular movement above the bridge may have contributed to the collapse, although the exact cause is yet to be confirmed, reported ANI.

Cause of collapse under investigation

Preliminary indications point to structural instability during ongoing repair work, but officials have not ruled out other factors. Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident once rescue operations are completed, reported ANI.

Focus on swift rescue and safety

The immediate priority remains the safe evacuation of the four labourers still trapped beneath the debris. Emergency teams are working against time, carefully clearing rubble to avoid further structural damage or risk to those trapped.

Further details regarding the condition of the rescued workers and the status of the remaining labourers are awaited as the operation continues.

(With inputs from ANI)