Title: Tragic collapse of a building in Bukavu: When negligence of construction standards costs lives
Introduction :
On Thursday, August 10, a tragedy occurred in Bukavu, capital of the province of South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A building housing a private school collapsed, killing at least four people. This tragedy highlights once again the crucial importance of compliance with building standards to ensure the safety of buildings and the people who occupy them.
Consequences of non-compliant construction:
According to the mayor of Bagira commune, Patience Bengehya Wangwabo, this collapse is the result of non-compliance with construction standards. Indeed, the building in question was under construction and the work was carried out without adequate supervision or control. A slab collapsed, causing the fall of several people present on the site. Unfortunately, four of them lost their lives, including the prefect, the principal of the primary school and an educational adviser.
The importance of respecting construction standards:
This tragedy once again highlights the critical importance of strict adherence to building standards. Neglecting these standards endangers the lives of the people who use the buildings and the workers who work there. Building standards ensure the strength and safety of structures, reducing the risk of collapse or accidents related to construction defects.
A call to action to strengthen construction safety:
Following this tragic event, it is essential that local authorities and construction professionals take concrete measures to strengthen construction safety in the region. This involves raising awareness of construction standards and strengthening site controls and inspections. It is also essential to promote the training and certification of building professionals to ensure that they have the skills necessary to carry out constructions that comply with safety standards.
Conclusion :
The collapse of a building in Bukavu is a cruel reminder of the tragic consequences of neglecting building standards. To avoid such disasters and preserve the lives of workers and occupants of these buildings, it is imperative to ensure strict compliance with construction standards. Authorities and professionals in the sector must work together to strengthen construction safety, raise awareness of good practices and ensure rigorous supervision of construction sites