A minimum of 26 individuals have lost their lives, and there are concerns about more people being unaccounted for, following the collapse of a railway bridge under construction in the northeastern region of India, as reported by officials.

The incident occurred close to the town of Sairang within the state of Mizoram. According to local media reports, around 40 workers were present at the site when a section of the bridge gave way.

The exact cause of the incident remains unclear, and the railway authority has initiated an investigation. So far, three individuals have been rescued, including an injured worker who had to be safely brought down from one of the bridge's 100-meter-high pillars.

The incident took place above the Kurung River, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) away from the capital city of Mizoram, Aizawl. The statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office assured that all possible support is being extended to those affected.

The government will provide compensation of around 200,000 rupees (£1,900; $2,400) to the families of the deceased. Railway officials have confirmed that the victims were all from West Bengal.

"Words cannot express the depth of sorrow and sympathy for the families affected by this tragic event," said Mizoram's Home Minister Lalchamliana.

The Khamrang-Sihhmui railway line will be 51km long and is due to be completed in December after work began nearly two years ago.

Accidents on these kinds of construction sites are not uncommon in India.

In October last year, more than 140 people were killed when a pedestrian suspension bridge collapsed in India's western state of Gujarat.

What a great tragedy, condolence to those who lost their family members there.

Too bad

Sad