BridgeCollapse – Under-Construction Bridge Falls in Jammu, Rescue Efforts Continue
BridgeCollapse – The collapse of a partially built bridge in Jammu’s Bantalab locality on Friday triggered an urgent rescue effort, with several labourers caught beneath the debris. Authorities confirmed that one worker has been safely pulled out, while three others remain trapped as teams continue their search and recovery work.
Sudden Collapse During Afternoon Work
The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 pm while a group of labourers was engaged in repair activities beneath the structure. According to officials and workers present at the site, the labourers were reinforcing a retaining wall that had suffered damage during flash floods in the previous year. Without warning, a section of the bridge gave way, causing a large volume of debris to fall onto those working below.
At the time of the collapse, six workers were on duty at the site. Two of them managed to escape moments after the structure began to crumble, avoiding serious injury. However, four others were trapped under the rubble.
Multi-Agency Rescue Operation Intensifies
Soon after the incident was reported, multiple agencies mobilized to the site. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) joined hands with local police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), army personnel, and civilian volunteers to initiate rescue operations.
Heavy machinery, including excavators and earth-moving equipment, was deployed to carefully clear debris while ensuring the safety of those still trapped. Officials on the ground indicated that the operation is being conducted with caution due to the unstable condition of the remaining structure.
One Worker Rescued, Others Still Trapped
Rescue teams managed to locate and extract one of the trapped labourers after several hours of effort. The injured worker was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. His condition has not been officially disclosed, but authorities stated that he was conscious at the time of evacuation.
The focus of the operation has now shifted to locating and rescuing the remaining three workers. Initial reports suggest that two of the trapped labourers are from Chhattisgarh, while the third is from Bihar. Efforts are ongoing to reach them safely amid challenging conditions.
Officials Monitor Situation Closely
Senior officials overseeing the operation stated that additional personnel and equipment are being dispatched to speed up the rescue process. The administration has emphasized that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure a swift and safe outcome.
Authorities are also expected to initiate an inquiry into the cause of the collapse once the rescue mission concludes. Preliminary observations indicate that the structure was undergoing repairs due to earlier flood damage, raising questions about safety protocols at the construction site.
Concerns Over Construction Safety
The incident has once again highlighted concerns regarding worker safety at construction and infrastructure repair sites. Experts note that projects involving damaged structures require strict adherence to safety guidelines, especially when workers are operating in vulnerable zones.
Local residents expressed shock over the collapse, noting that the bridge was an important part of the area’s infrastructure. Many gathered near the site as rescue teams worked through the debris, hoping for the safe recovery of those still trapped.
Rescue Efforts Continue Without Pause
As night approached, rescue teams continued their work under artificial lighting, determined to locate the remaining labourers. Officials reiterated that operations would proceed without interruption until all individuals are accounted for.
The situation remains critical, but authorities have expressed confidence in the coordinated efforts of the multiple agencies involved. Updates are expected as the rescue mission progresses.