Seven dead after bridges collapse in two Russian regions near Ukraine

bridges in Russia's Bryansk and Kursk regions has resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals, with numerous injuries reported . This catastrophic event occurred amid ongoing tensions and conflict near the Ukraine border, raising questions about safety and infrastructure integrity in these areas. The passenger train derailed after colliding with a collapsed highway bridge, highlighting the precarious situation faced by transportation networks in conflict zones .

Officials said at least seven people were killed and 30 were hospitalised in Vygonichskyi in Russia’s Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine. Russian Railways blamed “the collapse of a span structure of the road bridge as a result of an illegal interference in the operation of transport”.

Russia’s federal road transportation agency, Rosavtodor, said the destroyed bridge passed above the railway tracks where the train was travelling. Among those killed was the locomotive driver, Russian state news agencies reported, citing medics.

Photos posted by government agencies appeared to show passenger cars from the train ripped apart and lying amid fallen concrete from the collapsed bridge. Other footage on social media appeared to be taken from inside vehicles that narrowly avoided driving on to the bridge before it collapsed, the Associated Press said.

Moscow's interregional transport prosecutor's office said an investigation had been launched.

Authorities said the train's locomotive and several cars derailed when the road bridge fell on to it.

Additional emergency workers, as well as rescue equipment and light towers for carrying out work at night have been sent to the area, according to Russian news agency Tass.

Klimovo to Moscow and was in the Vygonichsky district when the collapse happened, officials said.

Authorities initially attributed the Bryansk bridge collapse to "illegal interference," suggesting that external factors may have played a role in this disaster. However, subsequent reports indicated that this assertion was later removed from official statements, leaving room for speculation regarding the true cause of these collapses . The investigation into this incident will likely examine not only structural integrity but also potential sabotage or negligence amidst heightened military activity.

This incident underscores broader concerns about civilian safety as conflicts escalate near borders. With multiple explosions reported disrupting train services across Russian regions close to Ukraine, it is imperative for authorities to ensure robust safety measures are implemented to protect both infrastructure and civilians . As investigations progress, further insights will be necessary to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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Sara H

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