Rescue efforts are currently underway in the city of George, South Africa, following a devastating incident where a multi-storey building under construction collapsed. The tragic event resulted in the loss of three lives, with dozens more individuals remaining trapped beneath the rubble.
According to reports from the municipality of George, twenty-four individuals have been successfully rescued from the site and have been transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. However, a concerning fifty-one people are still trapped within the debris, awaiting rescue.
Western Cape premier Alan Winde disclosed that at the time of the collapse, a total of seventy-five construction crew members were present on-site. The catastrophic moment was captured on CCTV footage, showing a cloud of dust enveloping the area as the building crumbled on Monday afternoon.
Local councillor Theresa Jeyi expressed her shock and sadness at witnessing the collapse, recounting how she saw the building disintegrate while a worker was still inside. The scene has left many individuals traumatized by the sudden and tragic event.
The provincial government has mobilized police and rescue teams, including sniffer dogs, to assist in the ongoing rescue operation. George Mayor Leon van Wyk mentioned that rescue workers are diligently listening for any calls for help from those trapped beneath the rubble, while additional rescue equipment is being deployed to aid in the efforts.
Mayor van Wyk emphasized the challenging nature of the rescue operation, stating that it is expected to be a lengthy process that may extend throughout the night as they work tirelessly to save as many lives as possible.
