11 people have died in the collapse of a highway bridge in Shaanxi province due to heavy storms and flooding. The bridge collapsed at 8:40 p.m. on Friday, with five vehicles falling into the rushing water below. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 20 cars and 30 people still missing.
China’s rapid economic growth has led to the construction of a vast infrastructure network, but poor-quality infrastructure and safety supervision, along with industries cutting corners to save money, have resulted in deadly accidents. Western and southwestern provinces, like Shaanxi, are prone to flooding and landslides due to their mountainous landscapes and powerful rivers.
The province is home to the terracotta army left behind by the first emperor, Qinshi Huangdi, and is a significant historical and cultural site. However, mining, tourism, and urbanization have disrupted the natural environment, leading to an imbalance that has been sustained for thousands of years. The collapse of the bridge is a tragic reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure development and safety measures in China.
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