Ten vehicles fall into river, 13 people missing as bridge collapses in northern Vietnam

At least 10 vehicles and two motorbikes plunged into the Red River when Phong Chau bridge in the northern province of Phu Tho collapsed on Monday morning, amid serious downpours triggered by super typhoon Yagi.

Four people were rescued, while at least 13 others are missing. These were statistics updated by 12 p.m., Monday, said Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc.

A car dash camera records the moment Phong Chau bridge collapses on September 9, 2024 in Phu Tho province, northern Vietnam.

According to the provincial People's Committee, the incident took place at about 10 a.m. as one pier and two spans of the bridge collapsed.

The province is currently mobilizing forces to conduct rescue operations, ensure public order, and manage traffic flows.

Phong Chau bridge, completed and put into use on July 28, 1995, is 375.36 meters long and located on National Highway 32C, connecting Viet Tri town and Lam Thao district with Tam Nong, Thanh Thuy, Thanh Son and Tan Son districts, as well as with the provinces of Hoa Binh and Son La.

Authorities have cordoned off the bridge and launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, said the committee.

Official data recorded by 12 p.m., Monday shows that Yagi that made landfall in northern Vietnam on Saturday and floods and landslides after the super typhoon have claimed at least 59 lives. Of these, 44 died due to flash floods and landslides. A bus carrying 20 people has been buried in Cao Bang province.