RESIDENTS of Lusaka in Nyanga, Cape Town have been left stranded.
This after a fire burnt down over 30 shacks on Friday, 17 December.
The fire was allegedly caused by a man referred to as Rasta, who was braaing some sausage.
Some residents lost belongings including groceries and Christmas clothes, while others who were supposed to travel on the day lost their tickets in the blaze.
“Rasta ran away after he learnt that people were angry. They were baying for his blood so he ran and disappeared between shacks,” said resident Luyolo Nkqayi (56).
Another resident Nosisi Tom (34) said: “I had booked my ticket and bought some blankets and Christmas clothes for my mother and children in Mthatha, but now I can’t go anymore.”
Street committee member Sandile Toko said he was at his house when he was informed about the fire.
“I came here running and when I arrived, Rasta had run away. I called the councillor who then called the fire brigade,” said Sandile.
Councillor Bongani Ngcombolo said he asked the City of Cape Town to allow fire victims to live in a community hall in the area.
“It is the only option we have for now, especially for those without relatives around who can accommodate them,” he said.
Ngcombolo said it was also a challenge that the municipality does not provide building material to fire victims as it used to.
“This means the victims have to buy the material themselves. At this point I’m calling for people to help the victims with material,” he said.
