“Grim Remembrance: Notable Bridge Disasters Around the World”

Baltimore, March 26, 2024: In Baltimore, Maryland, a cargo ship navigating through the Patapsco River struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing multiple vehicles to plunge into the river. Emergency services are currently engaged in a significant rescue operation.

Reflecting on bridge collapses over the past two decades worldwide, here are some of the most severe incidents:

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1. 2022: India – The collapse of a 150-year-old suspension bridge in Gujarat resulted in the death of at least 137 individuals, including nearly 50 children. The tragedy occurred during the Diwali celebration in Morbi.
2. 2021: Mexico – An elevated section of the Mexico City metro system collapsed, leading to the death of 26 individuals and injuring numerous others. The incident raised concerns about the system’s safety and maintenance.
3. 2018: Italy – The collapse of the Morandi bridge in Genoa claimed the lives of 43 people during heavy rainfall. This event underscored the inadequate maintenance of Italy’s infrastructure.
4. 2011-2016: India – Within this period, Kolkata witnessed a flyover collapse, resulting in 26 fatalities. Additionally, two bridge collapses occurred in Darjeeling and Arunachal Pradesh, collectively claiming over 60 lives.
5. 2007: China – A bridge collapse in Hunan province led to the deaths of at least 64 workers who were involved in its construction.
6. 2006: Pakistan and India – In Pakistan, monsoon rains caused a bridge in Mardan to collapse, resulting in 40 fatalities. Meanwhile, in India, a century-old bridge collapsed onto a passenger train in Bihar, claiming the lives of 34 people.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges and risks associated with bridge infrastructure across the globe.