11 killed as crane collapses at Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam

16:38 August 01

Death toll rises to 11 in Visakhapatnam crane collapse tragedy: DC V Vinay Chand

As many as 11 people were killed at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited premises here on Saturday when a huge rail-mounted crane collapsed during a trial run, District Collector V Vinay Chand has just confirmed. 

While speaking to media, he said, "A crane collapsed at Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. At least 11 people have lost their lives and one got serious injuries during the incident. As of now, I have ordered an enquiry in the matter and those who have been involved in the incident will definitely put behind the bars."

12:58 August 01

11 killed as crane collapses at Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam: At least 11 persons were reported killed and several others injured when a jetty crane collapsed on Saturday at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited premises.

According to eyewitness accounts, the mishap occurred between 11.30 am and 12 noon when officials were testing the crane. At least 20 persons were working on the spot when the crane broke and fell on its side, crushing many workers.

Of the 11 casualties reported so far, four persons are said to be regular employees, while the remaining seven are contract staff.

District authorities rushed to the spot and took stock of the situation.

District Collector V Vinay Chand said, "The 70-tonne capacity jetty crane was procured and commissioned two years ago and its full-fledged trials were initiated this morning. During the trials, officials were testing the dead-weight capacity of the crane when its cabin portion on the top and its base portion separated and the crane collapsed."

While rescue efforts are underway, some workers are believed to be trapped under the collapsed crane since rescuers and bystanders could hear the ringing of mobile phones under the collapsed crane.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy inquired about the crane accident.

After knowing the details of the incident, Reddy has directed Visakhapatnam District Collector and City Police Commissioner to take immediate action on the incident.

Saturday's incident is the third major mishap in the port city since May this year, when a gas leak in LG Polymers had led to 12 deaths.

(With inputs from agencies)