A frantic rescue operation is underway in Rongo following the collapse of a seven-storey commercial building under construction. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon at approximately 3 PM, sending shockwaves through the community and raising serious concerns about construction safety standards in the area.
Emergency responders, led by the Migori County Fire Brigade, were quick to arrive at the scene. The tragedy has already claimed one life a gatekeeper stationed at the building. Authorities fear there may be several construction workers trapped in the rubble, although their exact number remains unclear.
Oscar Olima, Migori County Secretary, emphasized the importance of ensuring safety in construction, urging contractors to adhere to proper building standards and use appropriate materials to prevent similar incidents.
A Call for Urgency and Safety
Preliminary investigations are being conducted to ascertain the cause of the collapse. Speaking at the site, Rongo OCPD Salim Fundi confirmed the commencement of rescue and investigative efforts.
“The building went down at around 3 PM, and we are actively investigating the cause. Our immediate priority is to rescue those trapped. Only construction workers are believed to be inside, but we cannot yet confirm their exact number,” Fundi said.
The scene at Rongo is one of desperate hope. Heavy machinery has been deployed to sift through the debris, with responders working around the clock to reach potential survivors. Nearby residents and community members have also gathered at the site, offering assistance and anxiously awaiting updates on the rescue efforts.
One Fatality Confirmed
The confirmed fatality a gatekeeper who had been manning the premises has underscored the tragedy of the situation. Eyewitnesses recounted how the building crumbled in seconds, leaving those within no time to escape.
This incident has reignited conversations about construction practices in Kenya, particularly in growing urban centers like Rongo. Residents have called for stricter oversight and enforcement of building codes to prevent further tragedies.
Authorities Respond
Migori County officials have pledged to take decisive action in the wake of the collapse. County Secretary Olima urged contractors to prioritize safety and adhere to proper construction protocols.
“The safety of our people must come first. We cannot afford to compromise on the materials or processes used in constructing buildings, especially those intended to accommodate multiple stories,” Olima stated.
Construction Sector Under Scrutiny
Building collapses have become an all-too-common occurrence in Kenya, often attributed to a combination of substandard materials, poor workmanship, and lack of oversight. Experts have long called for reform in the construction industry, including mandatory inspections at every stage of building development and severe penalties for violations of safety standards.
Hope Amidst the Rubble
As night falls, rescue teams continue their painstaking efforts, using floodlights and specialized equipment to navigate the debris. The community remains hopeful that more lives can be saved, even as the hours stretch on.
Family members of the trapped workers are gathered at the scene, holding onto hope and praying for their loved ones’ safety. Local organizations have also mobilized resources, providing food and medical assistance to the responders and affected families.
Looking Forward
While the immediate focus remains on rescue efforts, the Rongo building collapse has cast a long shadow over the region’s construction practices. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and stringent enforcement of building codes.
The outcome of the ongoing investigations will be pivotal in determining the next steps, not only for the collapsed building but for the construction sector in Migori County and beyond.
For now, the people of Rongo remain united in their resolve, holding out hope that amidst the destruction, lives can still be saved.
