THE death toll from a gas tanker blast in Johannesburg on Christmas Eve has climbed to 34, the Gauteng health department said on Friday.
The explosion in the city’s Boksburg suburb on Saturday tore the roof off the emergency department at the Tambo Memorial hospital, destroyed two houses, several cars and injured bystanders up to 500 metres from the scene.
Speaking at a memorial service held for the victims at the Boksburg Civic Centre on Friday, Health Minister Joe Phaahla said while he acknowledged that he had to prepare for the worst, the rising toll has come as a shock.
Phaahla was joined by Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Ekurhuleni Mayor Tania Campbell and Tambo Memorial Hospital chief executive officer (CEO) Senzo Ndubula at the service held in honour of the victims.
“On Sunday, when we were at the hospital with the MEC, I did say that an event of this nature can be far-reaching in terms of its consequences – especially knowing that burns through direct heat or fire goes very deep in the body. But, even as one acknowledged that we must be ready for these difficulties, I must acknowledge that the tragedy and the loss of life would be as extensive as we are seeing today.”
Authorities had earlier said 27 people died, but the number was expected to rise because of the severe nature of the burns inflicted by the blast.
The truck driver, who was earlier arrested on suspicion of culpable homicide, was released on Wednesday due to lack of evidence, local media reported.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised support to people affected by the blast and said authorities were looking into the incident.
Staff Reporter
