Officials to visit Eastern Cape village after veld fires
Officials to visit Eastern Cape village after veld fires
12 August 2012
published by www.sabc.co.za
South Africa–– Nyandeni Municipal officials in the Eastern Cape are expected to pay a visit to Zinduneni Village at Ngqeleni to assess the damage caused by a veld fire that destroyed a total of 17 homes, last night.
They are expected to come up with a plan to assist scores of villagers who were left destitute. Those affected will, for now, have to ask for shelter, food and even clothing from neighbours and relatives. Fanned by the strong wind, the fire swept through the rondavels with thatched roofs. The villagers say the blaze was so strong that there was very little time for them to save anything else other than their lives.
The Ndamase family consisting of 20 people is the worst affected. Four of their five rondavels have been completely destroyed with everything inside. House owner, Mangwanya Ndamase has made a desperate plea to anyone who can assist. The fire is said to have started in an open veld. Within minutes it had spread across an entire area.completely destroying homes. Some homesteads were completely wiped out. Residents were left with just the clothes on their backs and children’s school uniforms and books were burnt. Community members blame emergency services for not responding quickly. Those displaced are being housed at local community halls. Disaster officials are currently assessing the damage. Relief aid has been sent to the area.
