Bridge collapse: PM requests mobilizing forces to support rescue work
VOV.VN - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has asked the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense to mobilize all necessary forces and equipment to urgently carry out search and rescue operations for the victims after a bridge in the northern midland province of Phu Tho collapsed on September 9.
In a telegram dated September 9, the PM asked the two ministries to coordinate with the People’s Committee of Phu Tho province to carry out the operations.
He assigned Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, along with leaders from relevant ministries and agencies, to travel to the scene to oversee and direct the immediate response to the incident, focusing on search and rescue operations for the victims.
The PM asked the leaders to direct forces stationed in the area to coordinate and support local authorities in implementing response measures and mitigating the aftermath of heavy rain, flooding, landslides, and flash floods.
Two spans of the Phong Chau bridge that spans the Red River and connects Tam Nong District and Lam Thao District in Phu Tho Province, collapsed and fell into the Red River, causing traffic disruptions.
When the incident happened, several motorbikes and cars were seen moving on the bridge. A witness said there were vehicles on the bridge, including a truck and several motorbikes, when the bridge collapsed.
The video footage shows that the truck was unable to stop and fell into the river immediately after the two spans of the bridge collapsed.
The exact number of vehicles and the extent of damage to people and property have not yet been confirmed.
The Phong Chau Bridge was constructed using outdated technology with a steel truss structure and has a length of 375.36 meters. The bridge was inaugurated on July 28, 1995.
