22-2-2024 (GUANGZHOU) A tragic incident unfolded in China’s Pearl River Delta near Guangzhou city when a barge collided with a bridge over the Hongqili Waterway, resulting in a section of the bridge collapsing and vehicles plunging into the water. The collision occurred at 5:30 am local time, with at least two confirmed fatalities.
According to the Guangzhou Maritime Safety Administration, the barge was en route from Foshan city to a southern district of Guangzhou when the collision transpired. Images from China Central Television (CCTV) depicted an empty container barge wedged between two columns of the Lixinsha Bridge, with a portion of the bridge’s two-lane road deck missing, leading to a complete halt in road traffic.
Tragically, four vehicles and an electric motorbike fell from the bridge. Two vehicles, including a bus, plunged into the water, while three others ended up on the barge. The bus, carrying only the driver, survived the plunge. Two fatalities have been confirmed, one crew member sustained injuries, and two individuals were rescued, with three still missing.
Emergency and rescue personnel, including divers and salvage vessels, were dispatched to the scene, and investigations into the accident’s cause are ongoing. The Guangzhou maritime administration advised ships and vehicles using the route to seek alternative paths. Local officials reported the evacuation of nearby residents and the detention of the vessel owner.
Lixinsha Bridge is a crucial transportation route for residents of Sanmin Island. Despite the incident, a ferry service remains available for residents. As one of China’s busiest maritime transportation and trading hubs, Guangzhou’s authorities are dealing with the aftermath of this tragic event, with further details and casualties being verified.
广州某大桥断了，车子下去好几辆，死伤不明…… pic.twitter.com/6lIVLeBL3d
— 舞阳同学 (@Andrew19751110) February 22, 2024
