```html At Least 30 Killed in Ethiopia Church Scaffolding Collapse

At least 30 people have died and over 200 others sustained injuries after scaffolding collapsed at the Arerti Mariam Orthodox church in central Ethiopia on Monday morning. The incident occurred during the annual celebration of St. Mary, a significant event for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, drawing thousands of worshippers to the site, located approximately 70 km (45 miles) from the capital, Addis Ababa.

Local police inspector Ahmed Gebeyehu confirmed the death toll to BBC Amharic, warning that it could rise as rescue operations continue. He stated that those confirmed dead ranged in age from 25 to 80. Many people are still believed to be trapped under the rubble, prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Witness Accounts Describe Panic and Chaos

Eyewitnesses described a scene of sudden and widespread panic as the scaffolding gave way. "A large section of the church collapsed - the sound of the wooden structure giving way was loud and terrifying," one witness told local media. Attendees reportedly scattered in an attempt to escape the collapsing structure, leading to further injuries.

Severely injured victims have been transported to hospitals in Addis Ababa for advanced medical care. The extent of their injuries remains unclear, but local authorities have appealed for blood donations and medical assistance.

Government Response and Safety Concerns

The Ethiopian government, in a statement released through the state-run Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), expressed "deep condolences for the damage caused by the collapse of the scaffolding." The statement emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing safety in all construction projects, hinting at potential negligence in the church's construction or maintenance.

This incident highlights long-standing concerns regarding health and safety regulations in Ethiopia's construction industry. Poor enforcement and a lack of stringent oversight have contributed to a history of construction-related accidents and fatalities. This latest tragedy is likely to reignite debate about the need for stricter regulations and improved safety standards.

Historical Context and Orthodox Christianity in Ethiopia

Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity is one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world, with roots tracing back to the 4th century. The annual celebration of St. Mary is a major religious event, attracting large crowds to churches across the country. The Arerti Mariam church, like many Orthodox churches in Ethiopia, holds significant cultural and religious importance for the local community.

Dr. Hana Getachew, a researcher specializing in Ethiopian Orthodox Church history at Addis Ababa University, emphasized the deep connection between faith and community in Ethiopia. "These religious celebrations are not just about faith; they are integral to the social fabric of Ethiopian society. The tragedy at Arerti Mariam church will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the community and the nation as a whole," she noted.

Expert Analysis: Infrastructure and Regulation

Infrastructure expert, Dr. Samuel Kebede, speaking to BBC Africa, stated that "While details of the specific cause are still emerging, this incident underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of construction safety protocols in Ethiopia. Rapid urbanization and infrastructure development, while positive, must be coupled with rigorous enforcement of building codes and regular inspections to prevent such tragedies." He further added that investment in training and capacity building for construction workers is crucial to ensure safety standards are met.

Rescue Operations Continue

As of Monday evening, rescue operations were still underway at the Arerti Mariam church. Emergency responders are working to clear the rubble and locate any remaining survivors. The government has pledged to provide support to the victims and their families, including medical assistance and financial aid.

Rescue operations are ongoing. Injured victims are receiving treatment in Addis Ababa. The government has pledged support to the affected families.

The incident is a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in all construction projects, particularly in countries with rapidly developing infrastructure. The investigation into the cause of the scaffolding collapse is expected to be thorough and will likely lead to calls for significant reforms in Ethiopia's construction industry. ```