Indore, Oct 30 (NationPress) Tragically, at least two individuals are feared dead and many others have sustained injuries following an unfortunate incident on Thursday morning in Pithampur, a notable industrial town in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district. A crane, which was actively involved in railway bridge construction, flipped over and fell onto a moving pickup van.

The event unfolded around 8:30 a.m. in the Sagaur police station vicinity of the Pithampur industrial area, instigating panic among both workers and pedestrians, according to a police representative.

A senior police official reported that the crane was in the process of lifting a heavy cement pillar as part of the ongoing construction of a 500-metre-long railway over-bridge, which has been under development for almost three years.

During the lifting operation, one of the crane's supports began to sink into the ground, causing it to lose its balance and tumble from the overbridge.

The crane fell directly onto a pickup van that was traveling along the service road beneath.

The impact was devastating—the vehicle was entirely crushed under the crane's massive weight, leaving its occupants with minimal chance of survival.

Although police officials have yet to confirm the number of fatalities, they stated they are working to provide immediate medical assistance to any survivors.

Additionally, another pickup truck was caught in the incident.

Rescue teams swiftly arrived at the scene to assist in freeing those trapped within the wreckage. The injured individuals were transported to nearby medical facilities for care.

The police have cordoned off the site and initiated an investigation into the collapse's circumstances.

The abrupt failure of the crane, allegedly due to inadequate ground support, has raised concerns and sparked calls for a thorough examination of engineering practices and equipment standards.

Authorities have yet to release any official statements as the investigation remains ongoing.

The Pithampur industrial area, previously referred to as the 'Detroit of Asia', is primarily known for manufacturing automotive equipment. It also hosts a special economic zone, while a PM Mitra Textile Park is being developed in a nearby village, Bhainsola, located 95 km away. Currently, the priority is on rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the project.