ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI FIRE RESCUE TEAM SAVES LIVES IN CBD BUILDING COLLAPSE
EThekwini Municipality’s Fire Services responded swiftly to a reported structural collapse in the Durban CBD, earlier today, demonstrating rapid coordination and life-saving expertise under pressure.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:00am at 107 Monty Naicker Street (formerly Pine Street), where a structure undergoing renovations collapsed, leaving five contractors injured.
Upon arrival, emergency responders confirmed that a wall had given way during construction work involving a jackhammer and sledgehammer.
In a critical rescue operation, one individual was found trapped beneath the collapsed wall, which had pinned his leg.
Firefighters immediately deployed specialised pneumatic shoring equipment to stabilise the structure, working alongside Netcare emergency personnel to safely extricate the patient.
All five injured contractors were transported to hospital for medical treatment. Four sustained moderate injuries and were stable, while one patient remains in a serious condition and is receiving intensive medical care.
Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident occurred during ongoing renovation work at a workshop facility used as a parking area.
Investigations into the exact cause of the collapse are underway.
The Municipality commends the swift and coordinated response of its emergency teams, whose actions ensured that further harm was prevented.
EThekwini remains committed to safeguarding the lives of residents and workers; and continues to emphasise the importance of safety and compliance in all construction activities.
Further updates will be communicated as more information becomes available.
For emergencies, the public is urged to contact the emergency number on 031 361 0000.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.
