Relief efforts are underway in Masiphumelele informal settlement where a devastating fire in the early hours of Monday morning left one person dead and around 500 people displaced.
Ward 69 safety and security representative Jonathan Mills, who is currently at the scene, said around 140 structures were destroyed in the fire.
“Disaster Management is now in Masi preparing their team to come to the site to make an official list of those affected.
“They estimate that around 120 to 140 structures were affected which is over 500 people.
“We had a planning meeting this afternoon. Those affected will be receiving lunch from Gift of the Givers and supper from My Father’s House and Living Hope will also assist.”
The list of those affected will be given to SASSA to receive relief.
He added that City teams will be working to restore electricity to the D and F sections of Masiphumelele and that the full extent of the damage is still unclear.
PHOTO: Jonathan Mills
PHOTO: Jonathan Mills
PHOTO: Jonathan Mills
Meanwhile, the City’s Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse confirmed that one body was discovered in the debris after the blaze was extinguished on Monday morning.
“Kommetjie Road fire station’s crew was first on scene and confirmed numerous informal structures burning, fanned by a strong South-Easterly wind, and called on more resources to help bring the blaze under control.”
Approximately 70 firefighters brought the fire under control and extinguished the flames at around 08:20.
“At this stage, one body was discovered with fatal burn wounds,” said Carelse.
Anyone who would like to donate can drop off items at Living Hope on Kommetjie Road.
