Beijing, Nov 13: A massive bridge that was recently inaugurated has partially collapsed in a massive landslide in China.
The recently inaugurated Hongqi Bridge in southwest China's Sichuan Province has collapsed, and a video of the bridge collapse is going viral on social media.
According to local authorities, the bridge, which is part of a national highway connecting the heart of China with Tibet, suffered a series of landslides. However, no casualties were reported in the incident.
The incident occurred near the Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station in the city of Merkang. A video circulating on social media shows the hillside suddenly starting to collapse.
Dust and debris were recorded falling at this time. Then, within seconds, a pile of debris fell on the Hongqi Bridge. Due to this, the pillars of the bridge were collapsing. The bridge then collapsed into the river.
The intensity of the landslide also caused cracks in the roads, and as a precautionary measure, the 758-meter-long bridge was closed to all traffic after signs of changing terrain were detected indicating a potential danger, Reuters reported.
According to initial estimates, geological instability and landslides on steep mountain slopes caused the collapse. Emergency and rescue teams have been sent to the site to assess the damage and ensure safety.