Several dead as an under construction flyover collapses in Varanasi

Several people lost their lives after a portion of an under-construction flyover collapsed near Varanasi Cantt railway station on Tuesday. While over 50 persons are feared trapped under the debris. Rescue teams were rushed to the spot. Varanasi is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency.

News Agency ANI reported that more than 12 people lost their lives and several were feared trapped after portion of an underconstruction flyover collapsed in Varanasi.

More than 12 people dead, several feared trapped after portion of an under construction flyover collapses in Varanasi's Cantt. area pic.twitter.com/h7LB1hC5fb

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) May 15, 2018

Many cars have been buried under the heap of rubble, district officials said, adding that the death toll could go up, reported News Agency IANS.

IANS also reported that rescue operation has been initiated to clear the debris of the flyover, which was being constructed by the Uttar Pradesh State Bridge Corporation.

NDRF and police personnel had swung into action to rescue those trapped under the rubble. Senior police and administrative officials rushed to the spot. An official said that several people are feared to be trapped under the debris. He said that several vehicles were also buried.

According to reports, a city transport bus and a few vehicles was trapped under the collapsed portion of the bridge.  Panic prevailed in the area as the mishap took place during the rush hours.

PM Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the incident.

Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi. I pray that the injured recover soon. Spoke to officials and asked them to ensure all possible support to those affected.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 15, 2018

Updated : May 15, 2018 at 19:44 IST

By EP Web Desk