4 dead, 17 missing in tunnel collapse in E. China´s Hangzhou

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-17-2008 12:42

The death toll from the collapse of a subway tunnel under construction in eastern China's Hangzhou city has climbed to four. The search is continuing for 17 others trapped underground since Saturday's accident. '

The accident occurred on Saturday afternoon, when a  75-meter-long section of a subway tunnel under construction  in Hangzhou collapsed.

China's work safety watchdog is urging relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident.

Inspecting the rescue operation, deputy director of the State Administration of Work Safety, Zhao Tiechui, called on authorities to spare no efforts to save people trapped underground.

The subway tunnel's construction team says there were signs of a possible cave-in before the accident occurred, as cracks developed on roads near the site.

But no action was taken.

The cave-in created a huge crater where 11 vehicles were  trapped.

Construction contractor said," Yes. We reported to the relevant authorities. We're still waiting for their reply."

Zhao Tiechi said, " A tunnel collapse threatens people's safety. Why did you keep waiting? Why didn't you take immediate measures to prevent the accident from happening? The work safety system demands immediate measures be taken if a hidden danger is found, not reporting and discussion after an accident happens."

The accident occurred on Saturday afternoon, when a 75-meter-long section of a subway tunnel under construction in Hangzhou collapsed.

The cave-in also created a huge crater where 11 vehicles were trapped.

More than 1,000 policemen and fire fighters participated in the rescue operation.

They have been pumping water from the tunnel, as water from a nearby river flooded the site after the cave-in.

Most of the trapped workers were rescued and 26 injured workers were hospitalized.

Nine have already been discharged from hospital.