Guangzhou, China — A cargo ship collided with the Lixinsha Bridge in Guangzhou City, causing a section of the bridge to fracture and sending an unknown number of vehicles plunging into the waterways below. Rescue teams have been dispatched, and efforts are underway to search for survivors and assess the extent of the damage.
The accident occurred when the vessel veered off course and struck one of the bridge’s support pillars. Eyewitnesses reported a sudden, loud crash followed by the sight of vehicles disappearing into the river.
Local authorities have cordoned off the area, and traffic along nearby routes has been redirected to facilitate emergency operations. “Our immediate priority is to rescue any survivors and ensure the safety of the surrounding area,” said a spokesperson for the Guangzhou Maritime Safety Administration.
The number of casualties remains unconfirmed as rescue divers and teams continue to search the waters. Hospitals in the vicinity have been placed on high alert to receive any injured parties.
Lixinsha Bridge is a vital transportation link in the city, connecting key commercial districts and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The incident is expected to have significant implications for local businesses and commuters.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that factors such as mechanical failure, navigational errors, or adverse weather conditions could have contributed.
Residents are advised to avoid the area and stay tuned to official channels for updates. The Guangzhou municipal government has pledged full support for the rescue operations and a thorough inquiry into the incident.
This event marks a significant disruption in one of China’s major southern cities, emphasizing the importance of stringent safety measures in maritime and infrastructural operations.
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Live: Bridge fracture by vessel collision in south China's Guangzhou
cgtn.com
