Eleven workers have been discovered trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed building in South Africa, authorities reported on Tuesday, May 7th. The incident occurred in the city of George, situated approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) east of Cape Town. The five-story structure, which was still under construction, collapsed on Monday, prompting a frantic rescue effort.
Amidst the devastation, one worker managed to make a crucial phone call to his wife from underneath the debris, aiding rescue teams in locating him. However, the situation remains grim, with six confirmed fatalities and concerns that the death toll could escalate sharply. Additionally, 37 individuals are currently unaccounted for, adding to the urgency of the rescue operation.
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Twenty-one workers have been rescued from the site thus far, with at least 11 of them sustaining severe injuries. The George municipality stated that the search-and-rescue mission is expected to span at least three days. Colin Deiner, head of the provincial Western Cape disaster management services, emphasized the challenges of the operation, particularly the delicate task of extricating trapped individuals amidst the rubble.
The rescue efforts have been extensive, involving over 100 emergency services personnel, sniffer dogs, cranes, and other heavy lifting equipment. The operation continued throughout the night, with spotlights illuminating the scene to facilitate nocturnal rescue efforts.
As investigations commence into the cause of the collapse, authorities are facing questions regarding the accountability of the construction company responsible for the building. While a criminal case has been initiated by the police, details regarding the circumstances leading to the collapse remain scant. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and called for thorough investigations into the incident.
In the wake of the tragedy, families and friends of the workers have gathered at municipal offices for support, while hospitals brace for potential influxes of injured individuals. The aftermath of the collapse has underscored the need for stringent safety measures in construction practices, prompting a reevaluation of regulatory protocols.
