A fire broke out in the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement in Durban earlier today, forcing residents to evacuate as emergency services rushed to the scene. The blaze, which started in one of the shacks, quickly spread, prompting a swift response from local fire and rescue teams. More than 40 shacks were destroyed during the fire.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
According to eyewitnesses, the fire began in the early hours of the morning, with thick smoke visible across the area. The eThekwini Fire and Rescue Service dispatched multiple units to contain the flames. While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, authorities suspect it may have been caused by an electrical fault or an unattended cooking fire—common hazards in densely populated informal settlements.
A resident said that they were saving money for something but the stash got burned to ashes.
Challenges in Informal Settlements
Informal settlements like Kennedy Road are particularly vulnerable to fires due to the close proximity of makeshift structures and limited access to proper infrastructure. According to a 2024 report by GroundUp, fires in South Africa’s informal settlements have displaced thousands over the past year, with Durban being one of the most affected areas.
The South African Red Cross Society has been assisting displaced residents with temporary shelter and emergency relief supplies. Local community leaders are calling for better fire prevention measures, including the installation of fire hydrants and community education programs.
Authorities Urge Caution
The eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to exercise caution when using heating and cooking appliances, especially during the winter months when fire risks increase. Disaster management teams are assessing the damage, and officials have promised support for those affected.
No fatalities have been reported, but several individuals were treated for smoke inhalation. Investigations into the fire’s cause are ongoing.