More than 100 structures up in flames in Masiphumelele! Residents of Masiphumelele, an informal settlement in Cape Town, suffered a significant blow just days before Christmas when a devastating fire broke out early Monday morning.
The incident has left many families displaced, with relief efforts underway to provide immediate assistance.
Fire Erupts in the Early Hours
The fire was reported at approximately 4:30 a.m. when an emergency call alerted the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services about structures engulfed in flames.
Jermain Carelse, the City’s Fire and Rescue spokesperson, described the rapid escalation of the situation:
“The first arriving officer from Kommetjie Road saw the extent of the fire and called for additional resources. Currently, we have 14 frontline firefighting resources on the scene from various fire stations, with more than 70 staff members, including the Incident Management Team Type 4.”
An Incident Command Post has been established on Houmoed Avenue, where operations are being directed.
Electricity Shutdown to Mitigate Risks
To prevent further hazards, electricity in the area was shut off due to the risk posed by overhead wires. Carelse also highlighted security concerns, stating:
“Law Enforcement has been requested to patrol the fire lines, as there have been attempts to cut fire hoses. The fire is under control at this stage, and no injuries or fatalities have been reported.”
Extensive Damage Reported
The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early indications suggest that over 100 structures may have been destroyed. Sonica Lategan, the City’s Disaster Risk Management spokesperson, emphasized the magnitude of the situation:
“At this stage, there is no verification of the number of affected persons. Indications are that the number of structures destroyed could exceed 100. These statistics will be confirmed once the assessment has been completed, and all affected persons registered.”
The affected individuals will be registered for onward support from Sassa and the National Department of Human Settlements.
Relief Efforts Underway
Humanitarian relief organizations, including Living Hope and Gift of the Givers, are actively working to address the immediate needs of displaced residents.
Ali Sablay, spokesperson for Gift of the Givers, confirmed that their team was activated at 5:00 a.m. to assist. He noted:
“Gift of the Givers teams are still active and supporting fire victims of five other fire sites over the last five days. Once the site has been declared safe by firefighters, our teams will step in to provide humanitarian aid at 11:00 a.m.”
Assessment and Recovery
The City’s Disaster Risk Management team is conducting a formal assessment to determine the number of affected individuals and assess the damage. This evaluation will guide further relief and recovery efforts.
Lategan explained:
“The assessment will also determine which additional City Services are required on-site to assist with recovery efforts.”
Immediate needs, such as shelter, food, and water, are being prioritized while longer-term recovery plans are formulated.
Community and Relief Organization Support
The fire has highlighted the critical role of community partnerships and humanitarian organizations in disaster response. Relief groups, such as Gift of the Givers, have mobilized quickly to provide essential supplies and support.
Residents of Masiphumelele expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts but remain anxious about rebuilding their lives after such a devastating loss.
Conclusion
As the festive season approaches, the fire in Masiphumelele has left many families struggling to recover. The coordinated efforts of the City of Cape Town, relief organizations, and local communities are crucial in addressing the immediate needs of those affected and helping them rebuild their lives.
Residents and stakeholders are urged to support relief efforts to ensure that no family is left without assistance during this challenging time.
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