A swift response by eThekwini Municipality’s Fire and Rescue Services averted a major disaster in Bonella after a fast-moving fire threatened properties, businesses, and vehicles along the busy N2 corridor on 12 July.
Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 09h55 this morning following reports of a grass fire at 19 Westmead Avenue in Bonella.
The swift response came after emergency calls were received from concerned motorists travelling along the N2 who reported thick smoke and flames spreading rapidly along a cliff adjacent to the freeway.
Upon arrival, firefighters found that the fire had spread beyond the cliff edge and into premises used for the parking and repair of trucks and buses.
Several vehicles on the property had already been engulfed in flames.
Firefighters immediately deployed five water streams and launched an aggressive attack on the blaze, prioritising the protection of nearby residential properties while preventing the fire from spreading to additional vehicles on the premises.
The fire destroyed four vehicles, including two buses, one truck and one light motor vehicles, before firefighters brought the blaze under control.
The fire was successfully contained before it could spread further into neighbouring residential areas or cause more extensive damage.
No fatalities or injuries were reported.
The response involved three Rapid Pumpers, one Water Carrier and Command Vehicle 09, demonstrating the Municipality’s readiness to respond swiftly to emergencies and protect lives and property.
While investigations are ongoing, it is suspected that the fire may have been caused by a discarded cigarette butt thrown from a passing vehicle.
This incident highlights how a single careless act can quickly escalate into a serious threat to lives, property, businesses and critical infrastructure.
The Municipality urges residents, businesses and motorists to remain vigilant and to report fires immediately to emergency services to enable a rapid response and minimise damage.
For emergencies, members of the public are urged to contact the City’s Emergency Call Centre on 031 361 0000.
By-Law Enforcement Operations Intensified