KEY POINTS
- KZN Department launches an investigation after fatal collapse in Phoenix.
- Two Mozambican nationals died in the construction site incident.
- RUSA responds quickly but finds no signs of life in the victims.
The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Transport and Human Settlements has launched an investigation into a fatal structural collapse in Phoenix, which resulted in the deaths of two Mozambican nationals on Saturday.
The tragic incident occurred just after 11 a.m. on Canehaven Drive, Phoenix.
Ndabezinhle Sibiya, spokesperson for the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, confirmed the investigation.
“We received a report about an unfortunate incident that led to the deaths of two Mozambican nationals in Canehaven, Phoenix,”
Sibiya said. “The collapse of a retaining wall took place while the two men were digging a trench, which tragically killed them.”
Sibiya further added that consultations with other relevant stakeholders, such as the municipality and the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), will be conducted to ensure compliance with construction regulations and adherence to the Housing Consumer Protection Measures Act.
Reaction Unit responds to distress call and finds no signs of life
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) was quickly alerted to the collapse.
According to IOL, Spokesperson Prem Balram confirmed that their operations center received a call for assistance and immediately dispatched teams.
“Upon arrival, RUSA Officers found the bodies of both men trapped under the debris,” Balram said. “Unfortunately, they showed no signs of life and were declared dead.”
The victims, aged 27 and 29, were construction workers who had been engaged in the project at the time of the collapse.
The tragic loss of life has raised concerns regarding the safety of construction sites in the area. It has also highlighted the need for stronger enforcement of safety standards.
Investigation focuses on structural safety and worker protection
The ongoing investigation into the incident is expected to focus on whether proper safety measures were followed at the construction site.
It also aims to ensure that those responsible for oversight are held accountable.
In light of this tragedy, there are calls for greater attention to the safety protocols required in high-risk construction areas, as well as a push for more consistent regulatory enforcement across the province.
