[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-seop] Families of victims of the newly built apartment collapse accident in Gwangju urged the construction company Hyundai Development Company to ensure the safety of firefighters.
On the 22nd, the Collapse Victims' Families Council emphasized near the Hwajeong I-Park accident site in Hwajeong-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju, "Since Hyundai Development Company has already decided to take responsibility, we hope they proactively find measures and secure equipment so that firefighters can enter safely."
Mr. Ahn (45), the representative of the council, pointed out, "Currently, only 12 rescue workers can enter the building at once," and added, "No matter how hard the firefighters try, if safety is not guaranteed, they cannot do anything."
Regarding politicians' visits to the site, Mr. Ahn expressed concern, saying, "I worry it might interfere with the rescue efforts," and appealed, "I am not saying they shouldn't come, but I hope they do not burden the rescue headquarters or negatively affect rescue activities." He further stated, "What they should do when they come is to listen to the pain of nearby store residents or prospective tenants, other victims."
Regarding reports that firefighters directly removed debris from the upper floors during the search, the council criticized Hyundai Development Company for being passive. A son of a missing person said, "I saw reports that firefighter union members said Hyundai Development Company’s support was not properly provided," and claimed, "We also think the rescue has been delayed because Hyundai Development Company’s support is insufficient."
Another family member of a missing person criticized, "The accident happened because of Hyundai Development Company, but they only say they will provide maximum support, and even after the chairman visited, nothing has changed," and added, "As experts, Hyundai Development Company should propose various solutions, but it is frustrating that they are just waiting for firefighters to act."
Representative Ahn also said, "We demanded that the perpetrator Hyundai Development Company step back, but the authorities say Hyundai Development Company must come up with a plan," and criticized, "If they are going to take responsibility, they should do it properly. Instead of deciding to save money and securing equipment late, they should secure equipment in advance and actively prepare safety measures."
Currently, the families of the victims are requesting Hyundai Development Company and the rescue authorities to attempt multifaceted operations to speed up the process while considering safety. They proposed a method of delivering equipment using elevators by removing the wall behind lines 3 and 4 of building 201 and transferring it with ladder trucks or lifts. Regarding the plan to install temporary supports on three floors to secure building stability, they hope to install supports on all floors.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
