Following the collapse of sections of a major road tunnel west of Tokyo, fears are growing that at least seven individuals are missing…as smoke from a fire within the tunnel initially obstructed rescuers’ access.
Among the debris at the Sasago Tunnel, located approximately 50 miles from the capital, multiple burned bodies have reportedly been discovered.
After the fire was extinguished, video footage captured inside the tunnel revealed firefighters navigating through cement roof panels that had fallen onto vehicles.
Work by rescuers has been suspended, as local media reported concerns regarding another potential collapse.
A woman who managed to escape her rental car, which was trapped in the 3.8 kilometre-long tunnel, informed authorities that she was uncertain about the well-being of five other individuals who had been in the vehicle with her.
Additionally, according to a statement from the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, it is known that at least two more vehicles are buried in the debris, indicating the possibility of seven individuals trapped inside.
The agency confirmed that two people sustained injuries, one of whom was in moderate condition.
Investigation into the cause of the collapse affecting around 330 feet of the tunnel is currently underway.
Outside the tunnel’s entrance, police vehicles, fire trucks, and ambulances were gathered in large numbers.
A man who witnessed the collapse and promptly informed authorities of the emergency reported that he escaped after being ordered to do so.
The roof and windows of another vehicle parked along the roadside outside the tunnel were crushed, with the injured passengers reportedly transported to a hospital.
by Vandas Voice
