A fire erupted at an informal shelter for recyclers at the corner of Wessels and Valley Streets in Sunnyside on Saturday afternoon, displacing nearly 100 people.

According to Pretoria Rekord, Tshwane Emergency Services Department acting liaison officer Tebogo Maake stated that the incident occurred around 16:57 and was initially a rubbish fire.

“One fire engine was first dispatched to the scene, and upon arrival, firefighters found that the blaze had already spread to the temporary shelters built by recyclers on the subdivided stand,” he said.

Due to the intensity of the fire, additional support was quickly called in.

“We dispatched three more fire engines, a bush pumper, and 15 firefighters to assist in containing the fire,” Maake added.

Although the fire destroyed the informal shelters, no injuries or fatalities were reported.

Maake confirmed that approximately 100 residents were affected, saying: “The owner of the stand arranged alternative accommodation for those who were displaced.”

Tshwane Disaster Management was also on site and issued blankets to assist the affected community members.

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Maake encouraged residents to report fire and rescue emergencies promptly and accurately.

“When reporting an emergency, remain calm, speak clearly, provide the exact location, and give a correct contact number so our operators can call back if necessary,” he advised.

Emergencies in Tshwane can be reported by calling the toll-free number 107 or 012 358 6300/6400.

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