The death toll following the temple collapse in Verulam, on the outskirts of Durban, has risen to three, the eThekwini Municipality confirmed.

The grim news comes as a desperate search continues for several people believed to be trapped beneath the rubble. Search and rescue teams recovered another body as operations intensified throughout the day, amid concerns about the stability of the remaining structure.

One of the deceased has been identified as Vickey Jairaj Panday (52), an executive member of the temple and manager of the construction project.

A large contingent of emergency services, supported by sniffer police dogs and heavy machinery, remains on site. The area has been placed under strict security, with access restricted for safety and operational reasons.

Distraught friends and family members have gathered nearby, anxiously waiting for news of loved ones. Earlier today residents told The Witness that they were waiting for friends who they believed were still beneath the rubble.

eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba visited the scene on Friday night to offer condolences to the bereaved families. Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works Martin Meyer were also en route to join other senior government officials.

Cause of collapse

Preliminary information released by the municipality indicates that the temple, described by community members as relatively new, did not have approved building plans, rendering the structure illegal.

The cause of the collapse is currently under investigation. Officials added that additional resources are being mobilised to strengthen extrication efforts and to provide medical and psychosocial support to those affected.

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