Durban Temple Collapse Leaves Two Dead as Rescue Teams Halt Search Overnight

Two people died after the Durban temple collapse in Redcliffe on Friday afternoon. The four‑storey structure fell without warning as workers poured concrete. The site is north of Durban in South Africa. Rescue teams worked for hours before stopping late at night due to unsafe conditions.

Officials said several people may still be trapped in the rubble. Early rescue calls came from one trapped worker. Those calls stopped by evening. Crews plan to return at first light to continue the search.

Rescuers Face Tough Conditions After Durban Temple Collapse

The collapse happened as concrete was being poured on the upper level. According to AP News, one worker died instantly when the structure gave way. Many others were caught under heavy debris. The full number of missing people is still unknown.

Teams worked slowly because the rubble was unstable. They used drills and hand tools to avoid more collapses. Rescue staff spoke with families waiting at the scene. They told them that people have survived for days in other similar disasters. They urged families not to lose hope.

A second death was confirmed later in the day. A 54‑year‑old devotee who rushed to the temple after hearing of the collapse died from cardiac arrest. Paramedics tried to help him, but he could not be saved. His name has not yet been released.

The eThekwini municipality said the building did not have approved plans. Officials called the project illegal under local law. The temple, known as the Ahobilam Temple of Protection, had been under construction for two years. It was meant to house what builders said would be the world’s largest Lord Narsimhadeva idol.

Impact of Collapse and Next Steps for Investigators

The collapse raised serious questions about safety and oversight. According to AP News, investigators will examine materials, site work, and the lack of approved plans. They will also check how the structure was built and whether it met basic standards.

Private and city rescue teams plan to return with cameras and detection tools. They hope to locate trapped workers early Saturday. Families remain at the scene, waiting for news of their loved ones.

Local leaders said support will be given to the families of the victims. They also said the investigation will focus on responsibility for the illegal build. The collapse has renewed calls for stricter checks on religious and private construction projects in the region.

Rescuers say the search will continue until every part of the site is cleared. The Durban temple collapse has shocked the community. Many hope survivors will still be found when work resumes at sunrise.

Please note-

Q1: What caused the Durban temple collapse?

The collapse happened while workers poured concrete on the upper level. The weight caused the structure to fall. Officials are still checking the full cause.

Q2: How many people died?

Two deaths have been confirmed. One was a construction worker, and the other was a visitor who suffered cardiac arrest.

Q3: Are people still missing?

Yes, several workers are believed to be trapped. Rescuers say they do not yet know the exact number.

Q4: Was the temple legally approved?

Officials said the building did not have approved plans. The structure was considered illegal under city rules.

Q5: When will rescue work resume?

Teams plan to return at sunrise. They will use cameras and other tools to look for survivors.

Trusted Sources: AP News, Reuters