6 Dead, several trapped as under-construction bridge collapses in UP during storm
At least 6 workers have died and several others remain trapped after an under-construction bridge collapsed during a severe storm in Uttar Pradesh’s Hamirpur district late Thursday night.
The incident took place on a bridge being built over the Betwa River, connecting Morakandar to Kandaur village, when construction work was underway around 2 am amid heavy rain and strong winds.
Local officials said segments of the structure suddenly gave way during the storm, causing supporting pillars and slabs to collapse. Some workers were reportedly standing under construction equipment when the accident occurred, worsening the impact of the tragedy.
Rescue teams, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), rushed to the site immediately after receiving alerts. Authorities confirmed that rescue operations are still underway to locate those trapped under debris.
Among the deceased is 19-year-old Kuldeep Nishad, the youngest victim, along with five other workers from nearby districts. Officials said the death toll could rise further as search operations continue.
Police and administrative officials have launched an investigation into the incident, with early reports suggesting that extreme weather conditions may have contributed to the structural failure. However, questions have also been raised over safety standards and construction oversight at the site.
Local residents reported that the storm struck suddenly around midnight, and strong winds appeared to trigger the collapse of multiple bridge segments in quick succession.
