RESIDENTS have raised concerns over fire response times in Clairwood following a massive blaze that gutted a business property on Dayal Road earlier this month.

A community member, Muhammad Mansoo, said that the fire could have been contained more quickly had there been an operational fire station closer to the area.

He said the delayed response from fire crews has become a growing concern since the Jacobs Fire Station ceased operations after sustaining severe damage during the 2022 floods.

Also read: UPDATE: Clairwood factory on fire [PHOTOS]

The station, situated on Solomon Mahlangu Drive, was damaged when a canal burst its banks during the devastating floods, destroying parts of the infrastructure and rendering the facility unusable.

“My concern is that we don’t have a fire station in the area since the one on Solomon Mahlangu Drive was damaged in the floods. Since then, we have never had it operational again. We have had a number of massive fires damaging properties in Clairwood, and we have had to seek help from nearby fire stations,” said Mansoo.

Another resident, Haseena Hoosen, said Clairwood and Jacobs areas require a fire station more than any other area in Durban.

She has since developed symptoms of asthma and respiratory problems after the fire.

Also read: WATCH: Fire blazes through Montclair house

“I have never had any asthma problems before, but after inhaling smoke that was coming from a burning business, I started feeling unwell. I have to use a nebuliser everyday because my chest is congested,” said Hoosen.

Calls to rebuild a fire station in Jacobs and Clairwood

She called on eThekwini Municipality to rebuild a fire station on Solomon Mahlangu Drive.

“We definitely need to do something to get eThekwini Municipality to get this fire station up and running. Any recommendations or suggestions will be much appreciated. The fire on Dayal Road highlighted the abandoned fire depot on Edwin Swales. The community will all feel the brunt when things get burnt down.”

A fire that engulfed a business premises sent thick plumes of smoke into the air and drew attention from nearby residents and business owners.

Also read: Massive fire breaks out in Clairwood

Clairwood Ratepayers and Residents Association responds

Spokesperson for the Clairwood Ratepayers and Residents Association, Ravin Brijlal, said every citizen has a right to an environment that is not harmful.

“Residents were exposed to smoke, fumes and serious safety risks. Emergency services responded but the incident highlighted a bigger problem which is illegal businesses operating in Clairwood. Despite numerous complaints government departments have failed to act. Chemical companies should not be allowed to operate in a residential area,” said Brijlal.

Ward 32 councillor Protas Mngonyama said eThekwini Municipality is working on rebuilding the Jacobs fire station.

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