(MENAFN) At least 30 people lost their lives and more than 200 were injured Wednesday after a wooden scaffolding platform gave way at a church construction site in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, local media outlets reported.

The incident took place at the Arerti Mariam Church located in the Minjar Shenkora district within the North Shewa Zone, according to the Minjar Shenkora District Police Office.

Chief Inspector Ahmed Gebeyehu, head of the district police, confirmed, “30 people died at the scene and more than 200 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.” He added that the death toll could increase as some victims remain in critical condition.

Siyoum Altaye, acting director of Arerti Hospital, told local media the hospital, alongside the Red Cross, is actively treating the injured. He noted that six patients with severe wounds were transferred to other healthcare facilities as their injuries exceeded the hospital’s capacity.

Regional reports state that over 70 people continue to receive treatment at Arerti Hospital, while those with less severe injuries have been moved to nearby health centers. Authorities have called for additional medical assistance from other institutions due to the magnitude of the disaster.

The Government Communication Service (GCS) released a statement expressing condolences to the families affected and underscoring the importance of enforcing safety rules at construction sites. The GCS stressed, “Protecting workers and nearby residents must be a top priority and that future inspections should ensure strict compliance with safety standards.”

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