A tragic accident occurred near Valsad, Gujarat, on the under-construction Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor, claiming the life of one worker. The incident took place when a section of a bridge being built as part of the ambitious high-speed rail project collapsed, trapping three workers beneath heavy concrete blocks.
The accident occurred near the Mahi River on Monday evening, a critical site for the bullet train’s construction. Initial reports from the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) indicated that rescue operations were immediately launched with cranes and excavators at the scene. One worker was successfully rescued and is currently being treated in a hospital for injuries. Tragically, one worker was confirmed dead, while the third remains missing, buried under debris. Rescue teams continue their efforts to locate the third trapped worker, although no further casualties have been reported at this time.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project is a landmark initiative for India, aiming to reduce travel time between the two cities to just under three hours. The corridor spans 508 kilometers, with 352 kilometers running through Gujarat and 156 kilometers through Maharashtra. The project is expected to revolutionize transportation in the region and contribute to the nation’s infrastructure development.
The specific section of the project where the collapse occurred is one of the many critical river bridges being constructed along the route. The construction of 12 out of 20 river bridges in Gujarat had been completed just days before the incident. The tragedy has raised concerns over safety protocols at construction sites, especially for high-profile infrastructure projects of this magnitude.
Anand Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Jasani, who was among the first responders to the site, confirmed the details of the accident. Initially, it was feared that several workers might be buried under the rubble. “The accident happened during construction work near Vasad village in Anand district,” Jasani stated. “Two individuals were rescued, but the other two are feared to be trapped under the debris. Our teams are working hard to clear the rubble and locate the remaining workers.”
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor, being developed with technical assistance from Japan, is expected to significantly impact the region’s economy by improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting employment opportunities. However, incidents like these underline the importance of stringent safety measures and worker protection at construction sites.
Local authorities, along with the NHSRCL, have expressed their condolences and assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the incident. Meanwhile, the focus remains on completing the ongoing rescue operation and ensuring that no more lives are at risk.
ALSO READ: Sharad Pawar Drops Retirement Hints From Parliamentary politics: ‘Will Have To Think Whether…’
