The death toll in Morbi suspension bridge collapse in Gujarat rose to 132 on Monday with rescue personnel recovering more bodies from the Machchhu river, a police official said.
The over a century-old bridge, which had reopened five days ago after extensive repairs and renovation, was crammed with people when it collapsed around 6.30 pm on Sunday.
Eyewitnesses said there were several women and children on the British era "hanging bridge" when it snapped, plunging them into the water below.
Some people were seen jumping on the bridge and pulling its big wires, an eyewitness said, adding the bridge may have collapsed due to the "huge crowd" on it.
After the collapse, all that remained of the bridge was part of the metal carriageway hanging down from one end into the dark water, its thick cables snapped in places.
At the local hospital people formed a human chain to hold back crowds and keep the road clear for ambulances which brought those rescued.
Sanghavi said a five-member high-powered committee has been formed to probe the bridge collapse. It includes Roads and Buildings department secretary Sandeep Vasava and four other senior officers.
The police have not identified any accused, but have lodged a complaint against the hanging bridge repair agency, its management, and whose name is disclosed during the course of investigation.
The Morbi B Division Police Inspector P.A. Dekavadiya in the FIR has stated that the bridge collapsed around 6.30 p.m. and by the time a complaint was lodged at 8.15 p.m
"At least 132 deaths have been reported so far," the official said. The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.