One person has died while eight others escaped unhurt after a water trench they were digging in Kasama’s location area collapsed on them.
The person identified as Nelson Chilongo, a casual worker from China State Engineering Corporation died yesterday around 17:00 hours when the trench collapsed on him.
His body was, however, retrieved by a combined effort of the community, other employees and the fire brigade who rushed for rescue.
Gulf Consultants Limited representative, Becky Masuku said the incident happened yesterday around 17:00 hours when a trench for water pipe’s the deceased was digging together with others collapsed and buried him.
Mr. Masuku said Nelson was among the casual workers for China State Engineering Corporation the firm which has been contracted by Chambeshi Water and Sanitation Company to work on the Kasama water rectification project.
Mr Masuku said this when briefing Northern Province Permanent Secretary, Bernard Mpundu who went to access the site of the accident today.
And Mr. Mpundu has described the incident as sad.
Mr. Mpundu has since directed Chambeshi Water and Sanitation Company to provide a comprehensive report on the matter.
“We are saddened at the loss of the life of this young man and as a government, we hope that the contractor and the water utility company will be able to provide a comprehensive report as regards what transpired,” he said.
Meanwhile, a ZANIS crew that rushed to the scene last night found a team of fire fighters, and the others searching for another body which they thought was also buried.
But the search was however suspended after 3 hours when it was established that there was no other person who had died.
And Buseko Ward Counselor, Angel Musonda who was found on the scene last night urged the Labor Office and Safety Department to ensure that the working environment for employees is safe and secure.
Mr. Musonda said it is important for the two Departments to conduct an on spot check on where people are working
“Our labour office do not just sit in offices, it is important to check the kind of environment that our people are working on.” He said.
And Isaiah Chola one of the employees of China State Construction Company complained about the poor conditions of service.