RESCUE OPERATION STILL ONGOING OVER COLLAPSED BUILDING IN GEORGE, SOUTH AFRICA

The collapse of a building in George, South Africa has resulted in a rescue operation to save trapped construction workers. As of now, 21 people have been rescued, while 27 have been retrieved from the site, unfortunately, six of whom have died. However, 48 construction workers are still trapped in the collapsed apartment block.

Rescue efforts began immediately after the collapse, with teams working tirelessly through the night. As of Tuesday morning, communication has been established with 11 trapped workers, and efforts are underway to rescue them. Sniffer dogs and seismic equipment are aiding in the search.

Colin Deiner, chief director of Western Cape Disaster Management, stated that the international standard is to continue search and rescue operations for three days. The teams will persist in their efforts to make contact with those trapped in the rubble.

Following the rescue operation, an independent investigation into the cause of the collapse has been initiated, confirmed by Western Cape Premier Winde during a media briefing. Additionally, the families of the construction workers are receiving psycho-social support from the Western Cape provincial government’s social workers during this difficult time.

SOURCE: GroundUp