Once again, Johannesburg’s fire scare had social media platforms abuzz with alarm as news of yet another inferno outbreak hit the streets of Newtown.
This latest inferno, which occurred at a recycling station on Miriam Makeba Street, was reportedly ignited by recycling materials earlier on a fateful Sunday, thrusting the city into a perilous situation that demanded immediate attention.
Firefighters Respond to Johannesburg’s Fire Scare
In the face of this dangerous blaze, dedicated firefighters from the Joburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) sprang into action, responding swiftly to the emergency call.
Racing to the scene on Miriam Makeba Street, their prompt arrival played a pivotal role in containing the fire, ultimately preventing a potential disaster from engulfing the area.
Also Read: Tragedy Strikes as Fire Tears Through Johannesburg Building, Claiming 73 Lives
Johannesburg’s Newtown Fire Scare Details
This fire incident unfolded at the bustling intersection of Miriam Makeba and Jeppe streets, concealed behind the lively Bree Taxi Rank in the heart of Newtown. EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo confirmed that the fire’s origin lay with recycling materials, a catalyst that set off a chain of events with potentially dire consequences.
Fortunately, the firefighting team’s efficient response saved the day, with no injuries or fatalities reported during the incident.
Spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi clarified that the fire did not occur within a building contrary to initial social media speculation. Instead, it involved recycling materials and a lapa situated in an open area.
Watch the video below;
Fire: Newtown, JHB. pic.twitter.com/ktfHQgV0CT
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) October 1, 2023
Joburg Recurring Infernos
This latest fire in Johannesburg comes on the heels of a series of fire-related emergencies, with the most devastating being the Marshalltown fire in late August.
This catastrophic incident ranks among the deadliest blazes ever to engulf South Africa. It tore through a five-story derelict building on the corner of Delvers and Alberts Street in Marshalltown, leaving a trail of destruction and despair.
The tragedy claimed the lives of at least 77 people, including 12 innocent children, with the youngest victim just one-year-old.
Social Media Erupts with Concern
The news of yet another fire in Johannesburg has ignited a flurry of reactions across social media. Many in Mzansi have expressed growing concern over the frequency of fire incidents in Johannesburg, with some speculating that these fires may not be mere accidents, raising suspicions that someone might be intentionally setting them.
Check out some of the reactions;
@15Teejay;
It can’t all be accidental, someone is behind all these fires 🔥.
@Slipcatch;
Johannesburg keep on burning.
Is this a new trend or are we just more aware of it now?
@Thipsy991;
There must be a serial arsonist on the loose. No way all this fires are accidents 😳😳