Public Works Minister to visit KZN building collapse site as rescue efforts continue

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson is expected to visit the site of a building collapse in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday, as search and rescue operations continue.

The minister will travel to Redcliffe, north of Durban, where a four-storey structure collapsed at River Range Ranch, leaving several people trapped under rubble.

Emergency crews on the ground said some of those believed to be trapped have been communicating with rescuers via voice notes, as teams work against the clock to reach survivors.

Rescue efforts have been described as challenging, with officials saying the design and structure of the building are complicating access and slowing operations.

Macpherson is expected to receive a full briefing on the disaster and response efforts and will be joined by provincial representatives.

James de Villiers, department spokesperson, said, "The minister will be joined by the KwaZulu-Natal member of the Executive Council for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer, Council for the Built Environment, Chief Executive Officer Dr Nzizi Myeza and Construction Industry Development Board CEO Bongani Dladla."