KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, is coordinating emergency response to the structural collapse that occurred earlier today at a temple in Verulam, north of Durban.
At approximately 12:40, reports were received of a structural collapse at the temple premises.
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene. The cause of the collapse is unclear at this time.
A multi-disciplinary team is on site, comprising search and rescue teams, firefighters and emergency responders.
Confirmed Casualties and Rescues
Eleven individuals (two females and nine males) have been successfully rescued and transported to the hospital for medical care.
Sadly, one person has passed away.
Search and rescue operations are continuing to ensure no additional persons remain trapped.
Further updates will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.
Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
