5 injured as bridge collapses in Iraq’s Karbala

By Rania Abu Shamala

ISTANBUL (AA) – At least five people were injured Saturday when a bridge under construction collapsed in the central Iraqi city of Karbala, local authorities said.

Pillars of the Alwand intersection bridge project in Al-Husseiniya district collapsed, injuring five workers, including two Afghans and two Syrians, the state news agency INA said, citing Karbala’s Health Directorate.

Governor Nassif Al-Khattabi confirmed that two vehicles were caught in the accident as part of the bridge structure fell, but rescue teams managed to save one of them.

The governor’s office said efforts are ongoing to remove debris and ensure the safety of those at the site.

The bridge collapse occurred during concrete pouring works at the overpass construction project north of Karbala, local media said.