Death Toll Expected to Rise in South African Building Collapse
A tragedy unfolded in South Africa on Monday afternoon when a multi-story apartment building under construction in George suddenly collapsed. Rescue teams are racing against time to find survivors trapped under the rubble.
Over 30 people remain unaccounted for, and with at least 7 already confirmed dead, the death toll is expected to rise significantly in the coming days.
Extracting survivors is a delicate task, as heavy equipment needed to move debris poses a risk to those still alive. Rescue efforts are expected to take at least three days.
There is a glimmer of hope. Rescuers were able to locate some survivors by listening for sounds through the rubble, indicating there might be more alive.
Meanwhile, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the collapse. Authorities have opened a criminal case and appointed a structural engineering firm to analyze the scene and identify those responsible.
CCTV footage captured the shocking moment the building gave way on Monday afternoon.
Family and friends of the missing workers are gathered at nearby municipal offices, receiving support from social workers during this difficult time.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse.
