Firefighters successfully rescued a worker who was trapped under debris after a medieval tower partially collapsed during renovation in Rome. The incident occurred in the heart of the city. Local news captured rescuers carefully loading the worker onto a ladder and transporting him to an ambulance. While his condition remains uncertain, officials reported he was conscious.
Adriano De Acutis, Rome’s chief firefighter, shared that the rescue operation was challenging. Every time they freed a part of the worker’s body, more rubble would fall. They initially tried to access through a window on the first floor but had to abandon that method due to further collapse, opting to use a drone instead.
As night fell, firefighters used a crane to remove debris from the second-floor window. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri confirmed that the worker was speaking with rescuers and using an oxygen mask during the operation. Careful to avoid triggering further collapses, the firefighters approached the extraction with extreme caution.
The incident wounded one worker, a 64-year-old man who sustained a broken nose and was in critical condition. Thankfully, no firefighters were hurt.
The Torre dei Conti, built in the 13th century, has a history of structural issues, having been damaged by a 1349 earthquake. The tower is currently under a €6.9 million renovation, which started after thorough inspections confirmed the structure’s stability. Local authorities are now investigating potential negligence linked to the collapse.
Many tourists were present during the initial incident, creating a scene of panic as the tower crumbled. Witnesses described the moment as terrifying, with one local worker saying they heard an ominous cracking noise before the structure gave way.
Social media reactions highlighted the urgency of the situation, with many sharing thoughts and prayers for the trapped worker. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, expressed concern for the worker’s life and gratitude for the rescue teams’ efforts.
Given the historical significance of the Torre dei Conti, officials are emphasizing the need for safety in renovation projects. As structural collapses remain a concern, they aim to enhance inspection protocols to prevent future accidents.
This incident not only emphasizes the fragility of historical buildings but also the importance of stringent safety measures in construction. To read more about restoration efforts across Italy, visit Italy’s Cultural Heritage.
Source link
General news, Giorgia Meloni, Rome, Italy, International News, Viktoria Braeu, World news, Roberto Gualtieri, Decor, Adriano De Acutis, Luca Cari
