A major construction tragedy struck northwest China on Friday when part of a bridge under construction collapsed into the Yellow River in Shaanxi province, killing at least 10 workers and leaving four others missing, according to state media.

The accident occurred in Yulin city around 10:30 a.m. local time on August 22, when a critical steel cable failed, causing the central section of the bridge’s arch to give way and plunge into the river below. Dramatic footage broadcast by CCTV showed the moment the structure buckled and collapsed, sending debris and workers into the water.

Authorities said 15 workers and a project manager were at the site when the collapse occurred. Emergency teams, including more than 200 personnel, divers, and specialized rescue units, were immediately dispatched to the scene. By Saturday morning, one worker had been rescued alive but in critical condition, while four others remained missing despite ongoing search operations hampered by strong currents and murky waters.

Local officials confirmed that construction has been suspended and a full investigation launched. Preliminary findings suggest a key steel cable failure as the immediate cause, but experts are warning that rushed timelines, quality of materials, or oversight lapses could also be factors.

“This tragedy underscores the need for stricter oversight and quality control in China’s infrastructure projects,” said Li Wei, a civil engineering professor at Tsinghua University, speaking to China Daily.

The bridge project was being overseen by the state-owned China Railway Construction Corporation, which issued a statement of condolences and pledged full cooperation with investigators. However, the company has faced widespread criticism on Chinese social media, with Weibo users calling the incident “another preventable disaster” and demanding accountability.

Shaanxi Governor Zhao Yide visited the site late Friday, vowing justice for the victims and support for their families. The Ministry of Emergency Management also announced a nationwide review of infrastructure safety standards in response to growing public anger.

The collapse is the latest in a string of deadly construction accidents in China. In May 2024, a highway collapse in Guangdong province killed 36 people, fueling debate over the balance between China’s rapid infrastructure expansion and worker safety.

As divers continue their search for the four missing workers using sonar and drone technology, the incident has cast a dark shadow over Beijing’s ambitious infrastructure agenda and renewed calls for reform in safety oversight. (ILKHA)