A massive fire engulfed a multi-storey building in Johannesburg’s central business district, resulting in a tragic toll of at least 64 fatalities and 43 injuries among migrants occupying the premises. The fire broke out in the early hours of Thursday, its cause yet to be determined. The building, situated at the intersection of Delvers and Alberts streets, housed an informal settlement on each floor, where desperate migrants, both legal and illegal, sought shelter.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the blaze, managing to evacuate occupants while firefighters battled the inferno. The injured suffered from smoke inhalation and minor injuries. The fire’s origin was contained, but search and recovery operations continue, with the potential for the death toll to rise due to the building’s complex interior structure, which may have trapped fleeing residents.
This incident highlights the dire living conditions migrants face, with criminal elements hijacking abandoned buildings for profit. Essential services like water and electricity are often absent, making the environment hazardous. The tragedy emphasizes the struggles of economic migrants who come to Johannesburg seeking employment but frequently encounter exploitation and a scarcity of opportunities.
The disaster management team from the City of Johannesburg is working to provide relief for affected families, and officials are coordinating support efforts. As investigations into the fire’s cause unfold, the incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by migrants and the urgent need for improved living conditions and safety measures in informal settlements.