Three dead, 11 injured in church construction scaffolding collapse near Katpadi

The incident took place at a construction site near Katpadi where a 20-foot-high scaffolding platform had been erected to facilitate work on the upper sections of the church structure. At the time of the collapse, approximately 20 workers were present at the site, with a significant number engaged on or near the elevated platform.

Among the fatalities were Samuel, 67, and his son Immanuel, also known as Kutty, 32. The third deceased has been identified but details remain unclear. The injured workers were immediately rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment, with several reported to be in critical condition.

Local authorities reached the scene following the collapse and launched an investigation into the incident. Initial assessments suggest potential structural failures or improper installation of the scaffolding may have contributed to the accident. Safety protocols at the construction site are now under scrutiny by engineering and labor department officials.

The incident has raised fresh concerns about workplace safety standards at construction sites across the region, particularly in smaller projects where oversight mechanisms may be inadequate. Preliminary reports indicate the scaffolding structure may not have met established safety specifications, though a detailed inquiry is ongoing.