43 officials, 5 entities penalized for bridge collapse

Authorities in Northwest China's Shaanxi province have held five entities and 43 public officials accountable for negligence and dereliction of duty in connection with a highway bridge collapse that left 62 people dead or missing in July last year.

The collapse occurred on July 19, when flash floods caused by heavy rainfall swept away part of a bridge in Zhashui county in Shangluo, Shaanxi province. The disaster sent 25 vehicles plunging into the river below, causing direct economic losses estimated at 157.51 million yuan ($21.68 million).

Following the incident, an investigation team led by the Ministry of Emergency Management and composed of experts in bridge engineering, water resources, transportation, meteorology and geology was formed in accordance with the emergency laws. The probe examined the performance of local governments and relevant departments to determine their responsibilities.