In a devastating incident in Russia, at least seven people have died following the collapse of a highway bridge onto railway tracks near the Ukraine border. Emergency services confirmed that the bridge, located in Bryansk, fell onto a moving passenger train, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The unfortunate event occurred when the bridge collapsed, bringing down several heavy trucks onto the train below. According to reports, 31 individuals were injured, with local authorities confirming that two of the injured, including a child, are in serious condition. The local governor, Alexander Bogomaz, shared this information on Telegram, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
The Russian Emergencies Ministry has mobilized fire and rescue units to the scene, actively searching for any remaining passengers who may have been on the train at the time of the collapse. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with photographs emerging online showing mangled train carriages and passengers assisting each other in escaping the wreckage.
In response to the crisis, additional emergency workers, rescue equipment, and light towers have been dispatched to the area to facilitate ongoing rescue operations during the night. The train's locomotive and several carriages derailed due to the bridge's sudden fall late on Saturday evening.
Moscow's interregional transport prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the bridge collapse. Preliminary statements from Moscow Railway suggest that the incident may have resulted from illegal interference in transport operations.
Following the incident, the train was evacuated swiftly. Passengers were directed to a nearby station, where they were informed that they could continue their journey on a specially arranged reserve train from Bryansk to Moscow. This measure aims to ensure the safety and comfort of those affected by the tragic event.
As authorities continue to gather information and provide assistance, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this heartbreaking accident. The incident occurred approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the Ukraine border, adding to the significance of the location in light of ongoing tensions in the region.
