One person killed, dozens displaced as fire rips through Durban informal settlement
Tragic fire claims life and displaces many in Durban informal settlement.
Image: Supplied
A fire that broke out at the Effingham Informal Settlement in KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday night has claimed the life of a 29-year-old man and left over 20 people displaced.
The victim, identified as Ayanda Ziqethu from Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape, was burned beyond recognition.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Armstrong Duma, confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the victim's family. "We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim of the fire that broke out in Effingham Informal Settlements last night," said Duma, who has sent a team from his office to meet with the grieving family.
Preliminary reports indicate that 22 shacks were destroyed, affecting up to 28 residents.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, and the MEC is awaiting a report from eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.
In response to the tragedy, Duma has coordinated with the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to deploy a forensic team for the recovery of the victim's remains.
He is also in communication with National Minister of Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane, to fast-track government assistance.
"Our highly dedicated roving team from the Department of Human Settlements, national and provincial, is working with eThekwini Disaster Teams to profile affected households. Once the verification is finalised, we will accelerate our interventions," Duma said.
The MEC has pledged to visit the affected area personally to support residents and oversee the government’s response.
Emergency relief and rebuilding efforts are expected to follow once the assessment is complete. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to assist those impacted by the blaze.
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