Search and rescue operations resume at Verulam temple collapse site
Working tirelessly
The search and rescue mission underway this morning.
Image: Reaction Unit South Africa/Facebook
THE search and rescue operations for victims trapped beneath tonnes of debris following the collapse of a four-storey structure at the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection at the River Range Ranch in Redcliff, Verulam, resumed this morning.
According to a statement by Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa), rescue technicians are currently working to access individuals believed to still be trapped beneath large concrete slabs.
Five people, who were initially trapped, were successfully rescued hours after a four-storey building under construction collapsed yesterday, while a further eight construction workers were treated for mild to moderate injuries.
Vick Panday, the founder of the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection, was believed to be among those trapped under debris.
The South African Police Service, Fire and Rescue Services, specialised rescue technicians from multiple organisations, paramedics, and members of Rusa on standby at the scene as coordinated rescue efforts continue.
The Gift of the Givers team were on site providing critical support to the search and rescue teams.
Panday built the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection, which has been fashioned to look like a cave. The temple, erected in honour of the Hindu God Lord Nrsimhadeva, is situated in the Vrindavan Eco Village in Verulam and it was opened last May.