Dozens killed after bridge carrying hundreds collapses into river in India

Dozens of people have died after a cable bridge carrying hundreds of people collapsed into a river in India, according to officials.

At least 140 people were killed after the bridge collapsed Sunday evening over the Machchu River in the western Indian state of Gujarat, according to state officials.

Several more people were injured and trapped underneath the bridge after the accident, leaving officials to fear that the death count could increase.

Nine people were arrested Monday as the investigation into the accident, The Associated Press reported, citing local officials. Those arrested include managers of the bridge’s operator, Oreva Group, and its staff, according to AP.

The collapse occurred in Morbi, about 125 miles from the state capital of west Ahmedabad. The bridge had just reopened after undergoing renovation four days before and could not bear the weight of the people standing on it, local officials said.

Investigators are trying to determine why the bridge, built in the late 1800s, collapsed and who may be responsible.

It is unclear how many people were on the bridge when it collapsed. A special investigative team has been formed by local police, AP reported. A case has also been opened against Oreva for suspected culpable homicide, attempted culpable homicide and other violations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted Sunday that he is "deeply saddened by the tragedy at Morbi."

Rescue operations are "in full swing," and assistance is being provided to those affected, Modi wrote.

President Joe Biden released a statement Monday to send condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the accident, describing the United States and India as "indispensable partners" with "deep bonds."

"Today, our hearts are with India," Biden said. "Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the bridge collapse, and join the people of Gujarat in mourning the loss of too many lives cut short."