AN elderly couple lost the roof over their heads and all of their worldly possessions when a fire raged through their humble home in Motala Heights recently.
Their home, which was built from a combination of wood and metal, burnt to the ground.
Sargoonam (51) was asleep when the fire whipped through her house.
Her husband, Premlall (62), was not at home.
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She woke to raging flames that burnt her hair.
The couple believe the fire was started by someone from the community.
“Prior to the fire starting, all of Premlall’s panel beating tools were stolen and he received threats that his house would be burnt down,” said the DA PR councillor for ward 13 and 15, Marlaine Nair.
No arrests have been made and the incident is still under investigation.
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The couple and their children were offered temporary accommodation and clothing from relatives and community leaders.
“They are mustering the courage and strength to rebuild their lives,” said Nair. She said it was extremely sad to see poor, elderly people lose everything they owned.
The couple has children of school going age and are in need of uniforms, clothes, food and toiletries.
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Nair appealed to the community to assist the couple in any way possible.
Motala Heights librarian, Sue Backehansen will be collecting donations on behalf of the family. Contact her on 083 658 7788.
Councillor Nair urged residents living in both shacks as well as formal housing to take precautions to stop fires from breaking out.
The eThekwini Fire Department can be contacted on 031 361 0000.
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