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Hundreds of search and rescue personnel toiling through the rubble of the collapsed building in George, are receiving “essential support” from volunteers who have also stepped in to help.
George Municipality said in recognising the need to sustain the health and energy of the dedicated workers, the volunteers were supplying vitamin B complex boosters.
“These supplements play a vital role in releasing energy through metabolism and supporting overall bodily functions under strenuous conditions.”
“George Municipality thanks all volunteers and medical professionals for their invaluable assistance during this critical time,” said spokesperson, Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe.
Meanwhile, the Municipality said the search for 39 of the 75 workers who were on the site on Monday afternoon when the building collapsed, is continuing.
In an update at 14.52, George said the number of people who have died remained at seven.
Sixteen of the 36 patients retrieved from under the rubble were in critical condition in hospital, six sustained life-threatening injuries, while seven sustained minor injuries.
Moses Malala, a foreman who survived the collapse, told AFP that he heard a loud sound before the building came crashing down.
Malala, who was working on the roof, said he felt his feet slipping as the building started to fold on one side.
He watched his colleagues fall one by one. Many are still buried under the rubble.
Malala was injured but escaped with his life and has been helping with rescue efforts.
"I have pain too much... I can't sleep" he said.
"Since Monday I was here on the site, we try to remove our relatives, our brothers, and sisters".
Religious leaders and social workers were at the scene to assist and comfort distraught families.
Men, women, and children sang and prayed at the city hall as they awaited news of their loved ones.
One pastor told AFP they were offering "spiritual support" to those affected by the tragedy.
