Media statement: KwaDukuza mayor visits Ballito construction site where four workers died



KwaDukuza mayor Lindile Nhaca this morning, received a consolidated incident report from senior municipal officials following the collapse of a sandbank within a private property in Ballito where four people died. 

While the cause of the incident remains sketchy, it is alleged that the construction workers were installing gabion retainers when the escarpment collapsed and buried five of the workers, four people died on scene and one was rushed to Chief Albert Luthuli Hospital yesterday evening, 18 May 2024.

 

Mayor Nhaca has sent condolences and expressed her gratitude to all first respondents who were on scene.

 

“On behalf of council and the community of KwaDukuza, we are still alarmed by this tragic incident. I send my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. We trust that the survivor who is still hospitalized will recover with speed. We also extend our warmest gratitude to all emergency rescue teams, and to volunteers who assisted with food and liquids to keep the teams energized. The diligence and professionalism shown by first responders on this tragic incident symbolizes that our public-private partnership and the values of Ubuntu become the cornerstone on any of our efforts during a time of crises”, said Nhaca.

 

An inquest was opened by the SAPS, the mayor also urged the public not to speculate on the cause of incident. 

 

“We will also support the Department of Labour & Employment in conducting its own investigation in line with their occupational health and safety compliance. In addition, the municipality will be presenting all relevant documentation and information to the relevant regulatory body and law enforcement agencies. We also confirm that the property owner applied and submitted building plans applications in compliance with the National Building Regulations Act and has an approved Building Plan. Importantly, we appreciate the support and tolerance by neighbors whilst the recovery and search operations were underway. The municipality has cordoned off the site as it still remains unsafe”, said Nhaca.

 

The municipal teams have been busy with mop up operations including clearing debris on Zen Drive and restoring electricity on the neighbouring properties.

 

The mayor will be calling a special Executive Committee to consider potential support to victims and their families. The municipality in consultation with the affected families will be providing timeous updates in relation to the tragic event and way-forward.

 

Ends


Issued by the Office of the Mayor of KwaDukuza Municipality

Enquiries: Sphe Ngobese | sphelelon@kwadukuza.gov.za | 073 784 7822

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