Several others are feared trapped at the site, as 35-40 workers were present when the incident occurred around 10 am, about 21 km from Aizawl, police said as reported by PTI.

“Seventeen bodies have been recovered from the debris so far… many others are still missing,” a police officer said.

Mirozam CM expressed his deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

In a tweet on X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote, “Under construction railway over bridge at Sairang, near Aizawl collapsed today; atleast 17 workers died: Rescue under progress. Deeply saddened and affected by this tragedy. I extend my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. Sending gratitude to the people who have come out in large numbers to help with rescue operations.”