The City of Cape Town on Monday, said it has been working tirelessly with its civic partners in providing relief to Imizamo Yethu residents after the devastating weekend fire.
“It is believed to be one of the worst informal settlement fires that we have experienced to date,” the City of Cape Town said in a statement.
“From a humanitarian relief perspective, the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre is coordinating efforts through its non-governmental partners: the Red Cross Society, the Mustadafin Foundation and Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI).”
According to the City, thousands of meals and blankets had been provided by various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) together with the public.
“The Ambleside School in Hout Bay is the designated drop-off point for such donations. At the moment, items most needed are non-perishable food items, wet wipes, disposable nappies, water, toiletries, school clothing, baby clothing and stationery,” the City said.
It would appear that 4 500 structures were razed and approximately 15 000 residents have been affected. The City has also expressed condolences to the family of the three victims who died in the fire.
“City officials, as well as the Red Cross, have remained on site and in the area to provide 24-hour relief and comfort. Residents have been offered temporary relief accommodation in community halls in the area and a temporary marquee has also been erected at the request of the affected residents to house their belongings,” the City said.
“City staff is helping to secure the belongings of the fire-affected residents until an alternative plan is made. The situation will be monitored and assessed as the week goes on.”
It is foreseen that it will take at least a week for the City’s Solid Waste Management Department to clear the debris. The site would then have to be levelled and redesigned.
“This will take approximately a week if all goes according to plan. The City urges members of the community to work with the City in this regard. Cooperation will shorten the estimated timeframes of this process,” the City said.
Furthermore, the City has thanked all Capetonians for their generosity and concern.