Phumlani Village in tatters after another fire leaves 141 displaced

BARELY a month after residents of Phumlani Village had to rebuild their homes after a devastating fire, the community was struck by yet another blaze on Tuesday that destroyed more than 100 structures.

- BY KIM SWARTZ

While the exact cause of the fire is unknown, City of Cape Town Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) spokesperson Sonica Lategan said that department officials have conducted an assessment in D-Section, Riemvasmaak Informal Settlement and Eagle Park.

Lategan reported: “The assessment concluded that 106 structures were destroyed, and 141 persons displaced – most of them single adults.

“In terms of infrastructure, 11 toilets and taps were damaged, along with electrical cables.

“The Disaster Risk Management Centre will activate Sassa to provide relief beyond the immediate aftermath.”