The collapse of an under-construction truss bridge occurred on the Shimla-Mataur four-lane corridor in Hamirpur district, Himachal Pradesh. The incident took place over the Hathli Khad, resulting in injuries to several workers on-site. Local officials and emergency teams promptly responded to the situation, initiating rescue operations for those affected.

According to Naib Tehsildar Jagdish Chand, work was actively being carried out by personnel from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at the time of the incident. Reports indicate that out of the eight workers present, two suffered serious injuries and were transported to Hamirpur Medical College for urgent medical attention. Efforts are ongoing to reach and assist the remaining five workers still at the site.

The occurrence took place around 2:00 PM, when workers were reportedly manoeuvring the steel span forward using a crane. While the precise cause of the collapse remains under investigation, initial findings suggest a mechanical failure during the process. Further details are expected as more information becomes available.

NHAI’s Statement on the Situation

The National Highways Authority of India issued a statement regarding the incident, clarifying that the bridge was in the process of being constructed as part of the Hamirpur Bypass (NH-103) project. The launching operation involved a 90-metre truss bridge using incremental launching methods, which are designed to support large-scale infrastructure developments.

NHAI outlined that the collapse occurred when the launching nose was positioned over the pier cap. It registered that the structure fell due to a mechanical malfunction, and, importantly, there was no damage reported to the existing bridge piers. This adds some reassurance regarding the structural integrity of other parts of the project, even as the immediate fallout of the incident is being managed.

As part of the response, the authority confirmed that three individuals had sustained injuries and were immediately taken to the closest medical facility in Hamirpur. The ongoing efforts include site clearance and further assistance to any workers impacted by the collapse. The situation continues to develop, and further updates are anticipated from the local administration.

Rescue and Relief Efforts

Rescue operations are currently in full swing, with local authorities coordinating the response efforts to ensure the safety of the trapped workers. Emergency teams have been deployed to the site to provide medical care and facilitate safe extrication of the remaining individuals. The priority remains on securing the site and providing assistance to injured personnel.

The local administration is working in tandem with NHAI to address the aftermath of the collapse. Ongoing investigations aim to determine the specific reasons behind the mechanical failure that led to the truss’s fall. Safety protocols are expected to be reviewed as part of this evaluation to prevent future occurrences.’h4>

As further developments emerge, the community and stakeholders await comprehensive assessments, focusing on both safety and operational integrity. Local responses to the incident are reflective of the ongoing commitment to the protection and welfare of individuals involved in such infrastructure projects.

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