Jammu, May 2
At least three labourers died, and two others were injured after a portion of an old bridge collapsed during repair work in the Bantalab area on the outskirts of Jammu. The incident occurred while foundation and retaining work were underway on the structure, triggering a massive overnight rescue operation.
Rescue teams from the police, the Army, the National Disaster Response Force, the State Disaster Response Force, and the fire department conducted a 12-hour search operation under floodlights to locate those trapped beneath the debris. Four labourers were initially feared trapped when the structure gave way.
During the operation, teams managed to pull out three bodies and rescue two injured persons. Among the injured was a fire department officer who sustained injuries after being hit by a boulder while assisting in the rescue efforts. Both injured individuals were shifted to the hospital for treatment.
Officials said the bridge had already sustained damage during flash floods last year and was undergoing repairs when the collapse occurred.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary reached the site around midnight to assess the situation. Following a preliminary review, he ordered immediate action against officials responsible for the work. Two engineers were suspended, while directions were issued for further administrative action.
The government has also ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident, directing that the probe be completed within five days. A three-member committee has been constituted to investigate the circumstances leading to the collapse and to fix accountability.
The incident has raised serious concerns over safety standards and supervision in public infrastructure repair works. Authorities have assured strict action based on the inquiry’s findings, with a focus on preventing such tragedies in the future.
