Regional Correspondent
A four-story building collapsed in the bustling Kariakoo Market area of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on November 16, 2024, resulting in at least five fatalities and injuring dozens more.
The incident occurred during a busy shopping period, prompting a frantic search for survivors among the debris.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses reported that the building had recently begun expanding its underground business space just a day before the collapse. This expansion may be linked to the structural issues that led to the disaster, although investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause. Fire brigade commander Peter Mtui indicated that there could still be individuals trapped in the basement, intensifying the urgency of rescue efforts.
Rescue Operations
Hundreds of rescuers, including Fire Brigade personnel and volunteers, have been working tirelessly to sift through the rubble using various tools, from bare hands to heavy machinery. The Tanzania Red Cross Society reported that at least 56 individuals have been rescued and transported to hospitals for treatment.
Government Response
In light of this tragedy, the Tanzanian government has pledged to enforce stricter building regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who was en route to the G20 summit in Brazil, expressed her sorrow over the loss of life and emphasized the need for accountability in construction practices.
Historical Context
This incident echoes a previous tragedy in 2013, when a 16-story building collapsed in Dar es Salaam, resulting in 34 deaths. The rapid growth of the city, which is home to over five million residents, has led to a construction boom, raising concerns about building standards and safety regulations.
As rescue operations continue, the community is mourning the loss of life and calling for measures to ensure the safety of its residents in the face of ongoing urban development challenges.
Zim GBC News©2024