The tragic collapse of a section of the Meizhou-Dabu Expressway in China's Guangdong province has led to a startling increase in the death toll, now standing at 48 individuals. As rescue efforts continue amidst the challenging circumstances of mudslides, it has been reported that 30 people also sustained injuries during the collapse that occurred at around 2:10 a.m. during the first day of the May Day holiday break.
The collapse, which was triggered by heavy rain, saw 17.9 meters of the expressway giving way, causing 23 vehicles to plummet down the slope. The region of Meizhou, already grappling with adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain and hail since late April, faced further devastation as the collapse resulted in dangerous mudslides, home inundations, and bridge destruction. Efforts to rescue victims proved complex, with some vehicles buried deep in mud complicating the operation for the 577 relief personnel and over 80 rescue vehicles and equipment deployed to the site in response. Videos circulating on social media platforms depicted the aftermath of the incident, revealing a twisted metal guardrail, a large hole in the forested area where the collapse occurred, and damaged vehicles scattered amidst the debris.
President Xi Jinping has called for an all-out endeavor to save lives and mitigate risks as inclement weather persists in the region. The collaboration between task forces from both central and local governments underscores the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to handle the aftermath of the tragic collapse and provide aid to those affected.