Chinese authorities have reported a tragic incident in the northwest of the country, where a highway bridge collapsed following heavy storms and flooding. At least 11 people have lost their lives, with 30 individuals still missing as a result of this disaster. The collapse occurred in Shaanxi province, with five vehicles that fell off the bridge having been recovered. The structure crumbled at around 8:40 p.m. on Friday, leaving a section of the bridge snapped and folded down at almost a 90-degree angle into the rushing brown water below.
Rescue operations are currently ongoing in Zhashui county, with approximately 20 cars and 30 people still unaccounted for. In a separate incident in Sichuan province to the southwest, an estimated 30 individuals are missing, and around 40 houses have been destroyed due to flooding and storms. Hanyuan county, the hardest-hit area, has suffered damage to roads, bridges, and communication networks. Rescue teams have been tirelessly working to restore these vital connections since before dawn.
China's rapid economic growth in recent decades has led to the development of an extensive network of infrastructure, including highways, high-speed railways, and airports. However, concerns have been raised about the quality of this infrastructure, as well as safety supervision. The desire to cut costs has sometimes compromised the integrity of these projects, resulting in tragic accidents.
The western and southwestern provinces of China are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters such as flooding and landslides due to their mountainous terrain and powerful rivers. Factors such as mining, tourism, and urbanization have further disrupted the delicate balance with the environment that had been maintained for centuries.
Shaanxi province holds historical significance as a cradle of Chinese civilization, being the birthplace of the first emperor, Qinshi Huangdi. The province is renowned for the terracotta army, a remarkable archaeological find that forms part of a vast tomb complex near the capital city of Xi'an, attracting numerous visitors annually.
