By Levy Masiteng
A fire that tore through the Quarry West Informal Settlement in the Durban area on Sunday has left 246 families homeless.
At least 120 informal structures were destroyed, reducing entire households to ashes.
eThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni led an on-site visit to assess the extent of the damage on Monday.
Despite the scale of destruction, the municipality said no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Myeni said the city had deployed disaster management teams to provide humanitarian assistance.
“Displaced residents have been accommodated in temporary shelters, where they are receiving food, basic necessities, and ongoing care.”
“[The city has] brought in our partners and other government departments to ensure that you receive the necessary support and that you are taken care of,” she told the families.
Myeni said that the human settlements department was already working to accelerate plans for a long-term housing solution for the families.
On Thursday, the department of home affairs would provide assistance for those who lost their identification documents in the fire, she said.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to prevent fires before they occur,” Myeni said.
INSIDE METROS
