VIDEO: 48 homes destroyed by fire at informal settlement

A FIRE gutted an informal settlement in Sea Cow Lake, leaving scores of people homeless. Two people were treated for smoke inhalation at the Siyathuthuka Informal Settlement after a fire broke out in the early hours of Friday morning. A total of 48 homes were destroyed in the fire which is believed to have started through arson, however the fire department are yet to confirm the cause of the blaze.

Chairperson of the settlement, Innocent Mathaba, said the fire engulfed most of the homes within minutes.

“The fire got a lot of people by surprise. The shacks are situated close to each other and many of us have tarp or flammable materials on our shacks so the fire engulfed around 30 homes within five minutes. Some of the residents tried to rescue what they could but because of the intensity of the fire and how quickly it spread many people could only salvage what clothes they were wearing. It’s devastating as many of the people have no where to sleep or shelter.

“We would welcome any help if people are willing, so many families with young children have nothing. What was sadder was many people had no choice but to go to work today even though they had lost everything,” he said.

When Northglen News visited the settlement on Friday morning, community members had begun the painful process of rebuilding.

One of the residents, Akhona Hadebe, said all he could save was his ID book and a bag with his work clothes.

“I was awoken by loud screaming and then I smelt burn plastic and that when I knew what was happening. It was so difficult to see outside my home because of the thick black smoke. But I managed to grab just my bag and my ID book because it is very difficult to get another one. I have no choice but to try and rebuild my home,” he said.

A collection is being organised by ward councillor, Bobby Maharajh. If you are able to contribute clothes, blankets or food contact Maharajh on 082 374 5128  or Innocent on 084 321 4736.

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