1 week ago
Shock, grief, and hope hang in the air on the scene of a tragic building collapse in George, Western Cape, as over 100 emergency personnel work to rescue around 51 trapped construction workers.
As of the early hours of Tuesday morning, four people had died and 24 had been rescued and taken to hospital.
10 of the injured are believed to be in serious condition.
Speaking to The Citizen‘s sister publication, the George Herald, MMC for community safety Marais Kruger called it “one of the most tragic events to ever hit George”.
Family of the trapped being ‘given space to gather’ near the scene
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said the families and friends of the construction workers involved in the incident are being given space to gather in the foyer of the main municipal building.
ALSO READ: George building collapse: Three dead, 51 still trapped under rubble
There they are being assisted by the Department of Social Services and Correctional Services Social Workers.
The municipal building is opposite the scene of the tragedy and was closed on Monday as a safety precaution.
Roads heading to the building and scene of the collapse have been closed.
An army of volunteers
Multiple Disaster Service personnel, including Saps Search and Rescue teams with sniffer dogs and emergency teams from the City of Cape Town and Breede Valley Local Municipality have joined rescuers on site.
They have been split into three teams to search three separate areas.
Kruger thanked the army of rescuers and volunteers that rushed to the scene.
“Volunteers are still on the ground helping to carry out bricks [from the debris], constructors who have given up their equipment to help. There is a lot of food and water, and people helping.
“The most beautiful part is everyone pulling together, giving and sharing their hearts. I really want to thank them”.
Watch a video of the moment the building “disappeared” amid its collapse:
Here’s how you can help
Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk said anyone who wished to provide drinking water, lucozade, wine gum, or any food for emergency service can deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria Street, Delplan Consulting.
WATCH: Dozens believed to be trapped in collapsed George building
This is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge.
For further enquiries and offers to help, you can call Gift of the Givers’ Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428).
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