A FIRE that ripped through Thandanani Informal Settlement in Greenwood Park on Sunday morning, has left more than 60 people displaced, 36 of whom are children.

A total of 18 informal houses were burnt and the cause of the fire is unknown at this stage.

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Ward 34 councillor, Bobby Maharajh said a resident told him she woke up to use the toilet at about 2:40 when she noticed a red blaze.

“At the time, the woman didn’t think it was anything to be worried about but, when she returned from the toilet, she saw that the blaze above a shack. It had picked up, probably because of the wind,” said Maharajh.

A resident living near the informal settlement noticed the fire and called the eThekwini Fire Department.

Maharajh said he was in awe of how the Greenwood Park community rallied with donations to assist the affected families.

“The hearts of this community always amazes me. No plea was sent out, but residents came and donated clothes and other items to the families in need,” he said.

Those affected by the fire spent the night with neighbours, family and friends, pending assistance with building material from the City’s Disaster Management Centre.

“I have notified disaster management and I am waiting feedback. Meanwhile, the residents are still in need of clothing, food, bedding and any basic items,” he said.

Donations can be dropped off at Maharajh’s office at Room 3, 759 Chris Hani Road near the Caltex garage. You can contact him on 082 374 5128.