A few hours back, Shershah bridge, inaugurated by General Pervaiz Musharraf in Governor House for security reasons, on August 6th,2007, a major part of Northern Bypass which was constructed by the National Highway Authority (NHA), especially designed for the movement of heavy traffics to and from the Karachi seaport without passing through the city roads collapsed, leaving several cracks in the remaining structure and people are asked to stay away from it.
The incident took place around 1:15 pm and caused great deal of damage. One person has been rescued from the rubble, at least six persons were killed and several feared dead by the city government. Several persons crying for help, a mini bus, school bus, trucks and many private vehicles are reported to be trapped under the rubble.
The next few hours are very crucial as the city government has sent two cranes to the spot to help in the relief and rescue work. According to eye-witnesses more cranes are needed to lift heavy chunks of concrete. However if they dig under the rubble many lives can be saved instead of lifting the whole structure as it might drop several other pieces of the collapsed bridge on trapped individuals and cause more casualties.
A note for karachites: If you or someone you love has experienced the pain of losing a loved one, please accept our most sincere condolences on this frightening tragedy. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
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