Collapsed wall at the Vusimuzi Blue Flats leave four injured

Four men were hospitalised in critical condition after they were injured by the collapse of a wall at the Vusimuzi Blue Flats.

According to information available, the flats have been structurally compromised since a fire on September 24 which left many residents homeless.

Recent strong winds exacerbated the instability, causing bricks to fall and the wall to give way.

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The incident, which occurred on October 27, also severely damaged two vehicles and rendered them beyond repair.

Vusimuzi Thwala, the chairperson of the flats, described the scene as deeply distressing.

“The wall, which has been unstable for a month, finally gave way, causing damage to property and injury to four of our residents. One of them was in critical condition,” he said.

“We reported this issue to the municipality, requesting that the wall be demolished, but have not received any response.

“They indicated an inspection would be needed, but nothing has been done. This delay has now resulted in harm to our people.

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“The injured men were standing near the cars when the collapse occurred, putting them directly in harm’s way.

“We are devastated by what’s happening here. People are losing their belongings, and worse, their lives. This is something we cannot bear to witness.”

Residents hope the municipality will take immediate action to prevent further harm as the community continues to suffer from the aftermath of the fire and subsequent structural instability.

A request for comment was sent to the City of Ekurhuleni.

Should communication be received it will form part of follow-up reportage on this matter.