The DA will write to the MEC  of CoGHSTA, Basikopo Makamu, to investigate the dysfunctional state of fire stations in the Sekhukhune District Municipality.

During recent oversights concerning details of the lack of preparedness and sheer negligence emerged.

The fire station in Fetakgomo -Tubatse Local Municipality operates without a station manager. This official manages the station from Groblersdal, 150 kilometres away. (See photos here, here and here)

On the day of our oversight to this station, there were no firefighters on duty and the network booster burnt to ashes without any attempt to salvage it.

We were reliably informed that the firefighters rarely report for duty as most are either employed on the EPWP programme or have been volunteering for more than 5 years.

Both fire engines were dysfunctional; one broken and the other one’s wheels was stolen during the last 6 months.

At the A.B Sikhosana fire station in Elias Motswaledi Local Municipality there are no functional fire engines (See photos here, here and here).

The station was recently provided with 2 Jaws of Life after failing to save lives after the horrific accident between Motetema and Groblersdal on 3 March 2023 where 16 people lost their lives.

70% of the station’s employees are on EPWP contracts for years now.

The challenges faced by these stations are not isolated and it is clear there are no urgency or compulsion by the Sekhukhune district officials to remedy their failures.

Efficient firefighting services are the difference between life and death for many, especially those living in informal settlements or deep rural areas.

We will demand that MEC Makamu provides tangible remedial action with timelines.

 

Issued by Isaac Makofane - DA Councillor- Sekhukhune District Municipality