More than 30 go missing after footbridge collapse in Goa

Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard have been requested to dispatch team of divers for rescue operations

Rescue and relief work in progress after the Sanvardem Bridge collapsed in Curchorem, South Goa on Thursday. PTI

One person has been confirmed dead and more than 30 are believed to be missing following the collapse of an old bridge in Curchorem town in South Goa late on Thursday evening.

South Goa Collector Swapnil Nail said that the exact number of people missing had not yet been established. A Sub Divisional Officer has been sent to the site to take stock of the situation.

South Goa MP Narendra Savaikar told

The Hindu that Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had requested Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard to dispatch team of divers for assistance in the rescue operations.

"One body has been fished out of the water for now," Mr. Savaikar said.

Police sources said that the crowd had reportedly assembled on the bridge to witness a suicide bid, when the tragedy occurred. Sources also said that around 10 persons had managed to swim back to the shore.

Goa Director General of Police Muktesh Chander confirmed the tragedy when contacted by

The Hindu at around 8 in the evening on Friday, but said it was not possible to say anything about how many people had fallen in the water or the number casualties.

He added that rescue teams had rushed to the spot and search operation was on. The five persons rescued were admitted to the nearest State government hospital. One body was found hanging by the collapsed footbridge and was removed with the help of crane, police said.