KZN COGTA MEC warns informal settlements at risk of fires during winter
The call comes after a blaze destroyed more than 100 houses, leaving at least 200 people homeless at the Dakota informal settlement in Isiphingo on Tuesday.
KZN COGTA MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi. Picture: KZN COGTA
JOHANNESBURG - KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has warned residents across the province that informal settlements are at the highest risk of fires during the winter period.
The call comes after a blaze destroyed more than 100 houses, leaving at least 200 people homeless at the Dakota informal settlement in Isiphingo on Tuesday.
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He has urged residents to exercise caution when using heating devices, after preliminary findings revealed that the fire originated from a brazier.
Spokesperson Senzelwa Mzila said, “Relevant departments, including Human Settlements, Social Development and Home Affairs, have been activated.
“Soup kitchens have been established through social partners. Several options are being considered to accommodate the affected individuals as they work to rebuild.”