Mukherjee, Ansari condole deaths in flyover collapse

President Pranab Mukherjee and Vice President Hamid Ansari on Thursday expressed grief over the deaths in the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Kolkata.

In a message to West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, the president said: "I am sad to learn about the collapse of the flyover under construction in Kolkata in which number of persons have lost their lives and many others are injured.

"I understand rescue and relief operations are currently underway. I am sure the state government and other agencies are taking necessary steps to provide all possible help to the bereaved families who have lost their near and dear ones, as well as medical assistance to the injured."

The president wished for "speedy recovery" of the injured".

Vice President Ansari on Thursday also expressed grief.

"I am deeply grieved and shocked at the tragic loss of life and injuries resulting from the collapse of an under construction flyover in Kolkata earlier today (Thursday).

"I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved families and pray to the Almighty to give them strength and fortitude to withstand this immense loss. I also wish speedy recovery to the injured," he said.

At least 14 people were killed and many others injured when a portion of the flyover collapsed in Kolkata.