AHMEDABAD: At least 81 people were killed when a pedestrian bridge over a river in western Indian state of Gujarat collapsed, plunging hundreds of people into water, officials said. Authorities said more than 150 people were on suspension bridge over Machhu River in town of Morbi at time of collapse.

TV footage showed dozens of people clinging onto cables and twisted remains of collapsed bridge as emergency teams struggled to rescue them. Some clambered up broken structure to try to make their way to river banks, while others swam to safety. “Eighty-one deaths have been confirmed so far,” member of parliament Mohan Kundariya said. At least 30 people had also been injured, other officials said.

State Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi said more than 150 people were on narrow cable-stayed bridge, a tourist attraction that drew many sight-seers during festive season, when Diwali and Chhath Puja are celebrated. 230-metre historic bridge was built during British rule in 19th century. It had been closed for renovation for six months and was reopened for public last week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in his home state Gujarat for a three-day visit, said he had directed state chief minister to mobilise teams urgently for rescue operation.