Tragedy Strikes During Sacred Procession: Bridge Collapse Injures Eight

A footbridge collapsed in Dakshina Kannada, injuring eight during a religious procession. The mishap occurred as devotees crossed the weakened bridge carrying offerings. Locals helped in rescuing the injured, who were taken to a hospital. The bridge, over five decades old, failed under the weight.

In the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka, eight individuals sustained injuries following the collapse of a footbridge during a religious procession, police reported on Saturday.

The incident took place on Friday night at Bavadabaile near Hosabettu in Moodbidri taluk. Devotees, who were transporting a palanquin bearing sacred offerings for the 'Dharmanema' ritual, became victims of the mishap.

The footbridge, built approximately five decades ago, failed after a supporting beam gave way as the procession of around 25 people crossed it with traditional musical accompaniment. Victims, including Harish and Sunil Shetty with serious injuries, received aid from locals and were treated at a Moodbidri hospital.