DURBAN - Shack dwellers in the Foreman Road informal settlement in Clare Estate are rebuilding their homes after a fire swept through the settlement on Saturday.
Approximately 30 shacks were razed, leaving an estimated 100 people homeless. It is alleged that the fire was triggered by an illegal electricity connection. No deaths were reported.
Dwellers said they were devastated by their loss and hoped that the Department of Social Development would assist them with building material to rebuild their homes.
Welile Machi, who lost three businesses and his home, said he had no idea where to begin. Machi owned seven shacks which included a spaza shop, tavern and an entertainment gaming area.
“I was at work in Hillcrest when the fire broke out. I received a call from one of my neighbours. I could not leave work as soon as I heard. I also knew it would be too late to save anything by the time I get home,” said Machi.
“I am at work wearing the same clothes I was wearing yesterday (Saturday). I cannot even focus. I have no idea where I will sleep. We cannot bother people for ever. Eventually they will get tired of helping and that is understandable. I lost everything. I lost over R13 000 worth of stock. Fridges, food and airtime. These businesses were doing well and helping feed my family back home. I just hope we get help soon so we can plan ahead,” said Machi.
Devastated residents said they hoped the Department of Social Development would supply them with building material.
Department spokesperson Mhlaba Memela said in such situations the department got involved by providing social relief and psychosocial support.
Social workers would ensure people who had lost documents such as IDs, birth certificates and grant cards were quickly issued with new documents, so grant recipients could get their grants.
“While they wait for documents, social workers will also ensure that people have something to eat,” said Memela.
eThekwini deputy mayor Philani Mavundla and Active Citizens Coalition (ACC) Imtiaz Syed were at the scene soon after the fire broke out. Syed said the disaster management unit had been contacted.
Daily News