By Kadiatu A. Turay

The collapse of a seven-storied building at Shell New Road has sparked renewed fears over construction safety standards in Freetown. This incident, which occurred earlier today, has raised concerns about the structural integrity of many multi-storied buildings across the city.

While details on casualties and damages are still emerging, witnesses have reported that cracks were visible on the building’s structure weeks before the collapse. Residents nearby had expressed concerns, but no action was taken by authorities. Many are now questioning the effectiveness of building inspections and safety protocols for high-rise developments in the area.

Some residents believe poor construction materials and lack of professional oversight contributed to the tragedy. “This is not the first time we’ve seen a collapse like this. How many more lives need to be lost before the government takes building safety seriously?” said one local, reflecting the frustrations of many.

As rescue operations continue, calls for stricter regulations on building standards, especially in densely populated areas like Shell New Road, are growing. With Freetown’s rapid urbanization and a rising demand for housing, the question remains whether developers are prioritizing profit over safety.

Authorities are expected to release a statement soon, but for now, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of a disaster that many believe could have been prevented.