Rescue efforts continue after devastating temple collapse in Verulam, north of Durban, with multiple fatalities and several people still trapped. Sabc news image
The KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli is set to visit the collapsed Redcliffe Temple in Verulam on Sunday morning, where rescuers have recovered the bodies of four people who died when the four-storey structure crashed on Saturday. Recovery operations for the fifth body trapped underneath the rubble will resume on Sunday morning, after being called off on Saturday afternoon due to heavy rainfall.
Individuals Trapped Under The Rubble
The collapse of the temple has left one person dead, with three others believed to be beneath the rubble not responding. Ward Councillor Fakazi Witness Mdletshe expressed concern for the trapped individuals, stating that rescue efforts are ongoing.
One of the deceased is believed to be a director of the temple. Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean McPherson visited the site on Saturday, announcing that the investigation into the incident will be led by the Council for Built Environment.
Investigation By Ethekwini Municipality
The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, but a preliminary report from the Ethekwini municipality suggests that there were no approvals for the building plan, rendering the building illegal. A team of engineers has been brought in to assist at the site.
Ethekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has warned that there will be repercussions if wrongdoing is found, stating that consequence management will be implemented if the investigation reveals that laws were fluted.
The municipality has mobilized additional resources to strengthen extrication efforts and provide medical support to those affected. The public is urged to remain calm and allow rescue teams to work.
The Council for Built Environment will lead the investigation into the collapse.
Rescue Effort
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate the remaining trapped individuals, with the support of heavy lifting equipment and aerial surveillance.
The KwaZulu-Natal government has assured affected families that psychosocial and logistical support will be provided throughout the recovery phase.
The temple collapse highlights the importance of ensuring that buildings are constructed with safety and compliance in mind.
The investigation into the collapse will determine the cause and identify those responsible.
The KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s visit to the site demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting the affected families and ensuring that justice is served.
The recovery operation is expected to continue, with the focus on locating the remaining trapped individuals and providing support to those affected.
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