Residents reel after fire destroys multiple rooms at Madala Hostel
“I have lost almost everything,” Mntwangenza Sokhela shared, reeling from the devastating impact of the fire that gutted several rooms at Madala Hostel in Alexandra.
Residents of Madala Hostel, in Alexandra, are grappling with the aftermath of a fire that broke out on Tuesday afternoon, destroying multiple rooms and displacing several families. The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services managed to extinguish the blaze, but several rooms had already been extensively damaged.
Read more: Family speaks about the devastating fire that gutted their house
Felinjani Ximba (62) whose room was reportedly the origin point, expressed disbelief. “I don’t understand how it could have started in my room, when there is nothing in there that could have caused the fire. The only electrical appliances I have are the fridge and a TV and they were both off.”
His unit, located at the far corner of the hostel, was one of five that were destroyed. “Four additional rooms, of my neighbours, also burnt,” he said. “We don’t know what we are going to do.” He noted that their most urgent need is shelter.
His son, Lungisani Ximba, described the extent of the damage. “Everything burned. There’s nothing left. We don’t know what happened, because there is no cooking stove. He used to cook in the kitchen.”
Another resident, Mntwangenza Sokhela (47), explained how he arrived from work to find the building engulfed in fire. “There was fire all over. We could not stop it. There was no way we could stop it, or enter the building itself.”
Also read: Fire guts 15 shacks in Alexandra
He pointed out to the charred cupboard, electrical appliances, and the bed. “I have lost almost everything. The only things that remain are the bible, the identity document, and the passport.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth A fire that broke out at Madala hostel in Alexandra burned several units on the upper floor, leaving residents helpless and displaced. #Alexandra #madalahostel ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
While Sokhela refrained from making assumptions, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the cause. “We can’t really wrap our finger around it. We can all speculate. Maybe, it was recklessness.”
Residents confirmed that there were no fatalities or injuries, and authorities have not yet confirmed the source of the fire. Meanwhile, affected residents are appealing for assistance with accommodation, clothing, and necessities.
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