BEIJING (AP) — A tragic incident unfolded in northwest China's Qinghai province when an under-construction railway bridge collapsed over the Yellow River, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 workers and leaving four others unaccounted for, according to reports from state media. The bridge, which was part of the Sichuan-Qinghai Railway project, was a significant infrastructure endeavor that now faces a somber setback.
The bridge featured a striking curved aquamarine arch, but aerial photos from the official Xinhua News Agency illustrate the devastating structural failure, showing a large segment of the bridge missing. In one photograph, a bent portion of the bridge deck can be seen hanging perilously downwards into the river below, highlighting the magnitude of the collapse.
At the time of the accident, 16 workers were present on-site, engaged in a tensioning operation when a steel cable unexpectedly snapped around 3 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025. Following the incident, a coordinated search effort commenced, utilizing boats, a helicopter, and robotic technology in hopes of locating the four missing individuals. The search and rescue operations underscore the urgency and importance of finding those who remain unaccounted for.
The bridge, measuring 1.6 kilometers (approximately 1 mile) in length, was designed to stand 55 meters (180 feet) above the surface of the Yellow River, making its collapse not only a tragic event but also a significant infrastructural loss for the region. It was anticipated to be a vital connection for transport and trade, linking various parts of China’s vast railway network.
This incident raises critical concerns regarding construction safety protocols and the oversight of such large-scale infrastructure projects in China. Investigations will likely be launched to determine the root causes of the cable failure and whether safety measures were adequately enforced during the construction process.
This unfortunate event brings to light the inherent risks associated with construction work, especially on large structures that undergo complex engineering processes. With rescue efforts ongoing, families of the missing workers hold onto hope, while the broader community reflects on the tragic ramifications of the collapse.
