Families mourn, seek answers as building collapse at Verulam temple construction site claims five lives

A family of one of the workers who was among five people who died when a building under construction collapsed at River Range Ranch in Redcliffe, Verulam on Friday are demanding answers on what went wrong and accountability from those leading the project.

One person, speaking on condition of confidentiality, said the death of her partner was an immeasurable loss for her and her child, whom he loved and cared for deeply. By yesterday, it had been confirmed that five people had died, with their bodies having been recovered at the site of the Ahobilam Temple of Protection at River Range Ranch in Verulam, which collapsed on Friday.

“I am at a loss; I do not know what to do,” said the woman, whose partner was working on the site. “We had been together for close to 10 years and had a child. He was a good man who cared for his child, and his child wanted for nothing,” she said about her 42-year-old partner, whose name is known to The Mercury.

Other community members called for accountability over the deaths, claiming the incident could have been prevented.

“The project was moving very fast; it became a four-storey building within a very short time. We believe that the speed at which they were going contributed immensely to the building's collapse and the deaths of these people. We want those that were leading it to answer for it,” said one community member.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and IFP councillor Dr Jonathan Annipen visited the site yesterday. Speaking during the visit, Ntuli expressed deep sorrow and empathy for the families who have lost loved ones.

He said the government extends its deepest sympathies to the families and assured the public that every effort is being made to conclude the investigation to establish the cause of the tragic incident.

In a statement, the premier said, “This is a heartbreaking moment for all of us. Our hearts go out to the families who are mourning the loss of their loved ones. No parent, spouse, or child should have to endure such pain. We share in your grief, and we keep you in our prayers during this very difficult time.”

Buthelezi also shared words of condolence, emphasising compassion and unity.

“This is a moment of profound sadness. We extend our deepest sympathies to every family that has lost a loved one. May you find strength in your faith, in your community, and in the knowledge that many people stand with you in your grief.”

Councillor Dr Annipen offered words of comfort to families and community members who continue to gather near the site in quiet remembrance.

“This tragedy has touched every heart in Verulam. We mourn the lives that were lost and feel deep sorrow for the families who are left behind. There are no words that can truly ease the pain they are experiencing, but we want them to know that they are not alone. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with them,” he said in the statement.

Meanwhile, operations continue as authorities work to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

THE MERCURY