Search for Survivors Intensifies After Deadly Building Collapse in South Africa
Rescue efforts are underway in South Africa following the collapse of a five-storey building under construction, which claimed the lives of five individuals and left approximately 50 people trapped. Authorities in George, Western Cape province, have reported that 24 individuals have been rescued from the debris and transported to nearby hospitals. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, with approximately 75 workers present at the site during the collapse. Investigations into the cause of the tragedy are ongoing.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene after the collapse, which took place at 14:09 local time. Tragically, two of the 22 individuals initially rescued succumbed to their injuries, and three additional fatalities were later confirmed.
George Mayor Ald Van Wyk expressed condolences to the affected families, acknowledging the agonizing wait for news of their loved ones. Over 100 rescuers, aided by search dogs, have been tirelessly working through the night to locate survivors. Heavy lifting equipment has been deployed to facilitate the operation, with some trapped individuals already making contact with rescue teams.
Images from the site depict a flattened construction area, with sections of the building’s roof strewn across the debris. Local councillor Theresa Jeyi, reflecting on the harrowing event, recounted witnessing the collapse and expressed profound sadness over the incident’s toll.