New Delhi: At least 26 workers died when an under-construction railway bridge near Mizoram’s Aizawl collapsed on Wednesday (August 23).
Rescue operations are reportedly still underway at the site.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mizoram chief minister Zoramthanga and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee condoled the deaths through statements on X (formerly Twitter).
Modi announced ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PMNRF to the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs 50,000 to those injured. The foundation stone of the new broad gauge line from Bairabi to Sairang was laid by Narendra Modi on November 29, 2014.
Pained by the bridge mishap in Mizoram. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. Rescue operations are underway and all possible assistance is being given to those affected.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 23, 2023
“I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. Sending gratitude to the people who have come out in large numbers to help with rescue operations,” Zoramthanga said.
Note: This article was updated after it was published.