Scaffolding Collapse at Ethiopian Church Kills 36: Uncovering the Human and Structural Factors at Play

Breaking News: Scaffolding Collapse at Ethiopian Church Claims 36 Lives A devastating incident occurred yesterday evening at the St Mariam Orthodox Christian church in Arerti, Ethiopia, where scaffolding collapsed while people were climbing to view a newly painted mural. The disaster resulted in the loss of 36 lives, with hundreds more injured. Timeline of Events Wednesday: Thousands gathered for the annual celebration of St Mariam, an important day in the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian calendar. Approximately 7pm local time: A large number of worshippers decided to climb onto the scaffolding to view a newly painted mural on the church ceiling. The structure suddenly collapsed, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Immediate response: Emergency services rushed to the scene, with medical teams treating the injured and attempting to rescue those trapped. Immediate Impact and Response The collapse has sent shockwaves through the community, with many left in a state of grief and trauma. Local authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the incident, while aid organizations are providing support to affected families. The Ethiopian government has also pledged to review safety measures at places of worship across the country. Background Context The St Mariam church is currently under construction, with ongoing renovations aimed at preserving the historic building's integrity. While scaffolding is a common sight in construction zones, its use in areas with high foot traffic poses significant risks if not properly managed. What Happens Next As the investigation into the incident unfolds, questions are being raised about the safety protocols in place for such events. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church has issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of the victims and promising to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the coming days, we can expect further updates on the investigation and potential changes to safety regulations at places of worship across Ethiopia. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*