Gas tanker tragedy: ‘We were having coffee on our porch’
The death toll has risen to 37 and the community is still trying to pick up the pieces.
“There was panic that you can’t explain to anyone. It felt like the earth and our house was shaking. Then we just saw flames.”
This is how Plantation residents Strumpher and Elize Kluyts described the gas tanker explosion on Christmas Eve (December 24).
Strumpher and Elize live about 700m from where the explosion happened and spoke to the Boksburg Advertiser about what they heard and saw.
Elize explained they were drinking coffee on the porch when they heard an explosion.
“Shortly afterwards, there was another explosion. There was a moment of silence before we heard the screams, sirens and helicopters. We didn’t know what was going on and we were too scared to go out. We knew something was wrong. Even our pets were uneasy.
“Everybody on the community group wanted to know what was happening. There was a panic that you can’t explain to anybody. The community didn’t have a nice Christmas after the disaster. A lot of people phoned us to ask if we are alright and we appreciate their concern.”
She added their house was not damaged in the blast.
Strumpher said the incident will stay with them for a long time.
More than a week after the explosion, Ward 32 Clr Marius de Vos said the community of Plantation is in shock.
“People are literally and figuratively trying to pick up the pieces. They are mourning. The explosion caused the loss of lives and damage to houses.”
De Vos said several organisations jumped in to assist the community affected by the explosion.
“Anybody who would like to assist is welcome to contact me. The donations will go to a central place. Clothing, food and monetary contributions will be welcome. The items will then go to those who need them.”
De Vos may be contacted at 081 524 6950.
Also Read: Gas tanker disaster: Loss of four children surreal for family
Also Read: WATCH: Eight confirmed dead in horror gas tanker explosion in Plantation
