A 12-storey building in the final stages of construction collapsed on Friday morning, leaving at least five people dead and dozens more trapped under the rubble in Dar es Salaam Tanzania.
The incident, which unfolded near Kariakoo Market, a bustling commercial hub, has caused renewed scrutiny of construction practices in the city.
Witnesses reported the building crashing down without warning in an area where children were playing. “It happened so suddenly,” a local resident told reporters. “The sound was deafening, and dust covered the entire street.”
Rescue operations began immediately, with teams pulling at least 15 survivors from the debris on the first day.
By Sunday, that number had risen to over 70, but officials fear that many more remain trapped, particularly in the basement of the structure. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila expressed hope for those still alive beneath the ruins. “We are communicating with some of them,” he said. “Oxygen and water have been supplied to ensure their stability, and we remain optimistic about their rescue.”
The collapsed building had been undergoing underground expansion just before the disaster.
Witnesses reported seeing construction activity aimed at enlarging the basement space only hours before the building gave way.
Fire Brigade Chief John Masunga noted the challenges faced by rescuers. “The structure’s numerous walls have made it difficult to access all areas quickly,” he explained. “Initially, hundreds of responders worked tirelessly with hand tools and bare hands to remove debris. Later, heavy machinery, including cranes, was deployed to aid the effort.”
