Wiggins Informal Settlement Fire

EThekwini Municipality’s Firefighting team responded swiftly to an informal settlement fire in Wiggins last night, successfully containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading to additional structures.

At approximately 23:30, Fire Services were alerted by the Emergency Management and Communication Centre (EMACC) to a fire at Danbar Road Informal Settlement in Wiggins, Ward 29.

Upon arrival, firefighters found around 10 informal structures fully engulfed in flames.

Two operational sectors were immediately established, and crews launched an aggressive firefighting operation using three 38mm hose lines to contain and extinguish the blaze.

The fire destroyed approximately 10 informal structures, leaving several families displaced and homeless.

Residents informed firefighters that a person was believed to be trapped inside one of the burning structures. A thorough search of the affected area was conducted, however, no occupants were found.

Fortunately, no injuries, fatalities, or missing persons were reported. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation.

Firefighters successfully contained the blaze and prevented further damage to neighbouring structures.

Displaced residents have temporarily sought shelter with neighbours and relatives.

The Municipality’s Emergency Services team is working with relevant stakeholders to assess the impact of the incident and provide the necessary support to affected families.

The Municipality urges residents to exercise caution when using open flames, cooking appliances, and electrical connections, particularly in densely populated informal settlements where fires can spread rapidly and cause widespread devastation.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

For emergencies, members of the public are urged to contact the City’s Emergency Call Centre on 031 361 0000.