Tragedy in Verulam: ISKCON South Africa pays tribute to victims of temple collapse as search resumes
The search and recovery operation at the site of a building collapse in Redcliffe, Verulam is set to resume on Sunday.
Image: eThekwini Municipality
International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) South African National Council has paid tribute to Vic Panday, founder of the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam and devotee Vasudeva Datta dasa.
The two are among those who died in the structural collapse at the site at River Range Ranch, Redcliffe on Friday. While four bodies have been recovered, it is believed that a fifth body may still be under the rubble but could not be retrieved on Saturday due to inclement weather. The recovery operation is expected to continue on Sunday.
In their statement, the ISKCON South African National Council said: “Our hearts are heavy following the tragic loss of life at the River Range Ranch. We offer our prayers and remembrance for Mr Vic Panday, founder of the New Ahobilam Temple of Protection in Redcliffe, Verulam, and for Vasudeva Datta dasa, along with others whose lives were lost in this tragedy.
“We are united by a shared intention to bring peace, unity and love for God within the community. In moments such as these, it is that shared humanity that matters most. We therefore offer our sincere condolences to the community of the New Ahobilam Temple. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones who are carrying unimaginable grief. As the families and loved ones deal with the shock and trauma of such huge personal loss - please know that you are not alone. We stand in compassion, offering our support, our prayers and our care during this painful time.”
The council also offered their gratitude and prayers for the rescue teams and first responders for their selfless service which has brought care and dignity amid this tragedy.
“We place our trust and prayers at the feet of Lord Sri Krishna and beg that strength, comfort and courage be given to every family that has been touched by this tragedy. Our continued support lies with you and pray as such that Mr Vic Panday, Vasudeva Datta dasa and the others who have lost their lives to be guided back to feet of the Supreme Lord.”
Meanwhile, IOL reports that eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba revisited the collapse site on Saturday to support emergency teams and affected families.
He confirmed that a multidisciplinary technical team has been appointed to investigate the cause of the collapse and will compile a preliminary report to be released next week.
Xaba urged the public to refrain from speculation. “We urge the public not to speculate about the cause of the incident and to allow the technical team the necessary space to conduct its work.”