Shimla, June 23 -- The Revenue and Horticulture Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jagat Singh Negi on Tuesday said the collapse of the Bailey bridge in the Urni area of Kinnaur district was caused by an overloaded vehicle and not due to any technical or material defect.

He also asserted that the state government has made extensive preparations to tackle monsoon-related disasters across Himachal Pradesh.

The iron bridge collapsed in Kinnaur district today and a dumper truck loaded with sand fell into the Sutlej river while the driver escaped with minor injuries.

Speaking to ANI, Negi said the bridge, which had been functioning successfully for several years, was constructed as an alternative arrangement after a massive landslide in the Urni...