Joburg EMS contain Madala hostel fire in Alexandra. Image: Central News.
(The Post News)- Fire erupted at the Madala Hostel in Alexandra. Thick smoke into the sky and flames rising high above the buildings were reported.
The fire reportedly started around midday; residents of the hostel were in a state of panic as they rushed to evacuate the premises as soon as they saw the flames. Firefighters from multiple stations were deployed, with fire trucks lining the streets around the hostel.
EMS Says Fires Started on the Fourth Floor of Madala Hostel
City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) metro spokesperson Xolile Khumalo highlighted that the fire started on the fourth floor of Madala hostel. “The blaze, reported at 12:10 on the fourth floor of the four-story building, was brought under control before it could spread to the floors below.
“Fire crews remain on site, conducting damping-down operations to prevent any flare-ups,” Khumalo said. Khumalo stated that the Joburg EMS contained the fire that broke out in a hostel in Alexandra. “No injuries were reported, but the blaze gutted one floor at the Madala hostel,” she added.
Witnesses described the incident as a chaotic scene, with thick black smoke billowing from the upper floors of the building. “It’s terrifying to see how quickly it spread. We heard a loud bang and then saw the smoke. People were running out of the building, trying to get to safety,” said one local resident, who was taking visuals from a safe distance.
City officials have stepped in to support affected residents, drawing from past responses. In similar events, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Housing has offered help, such as temporary shelters or aid for rebuilding. While details on immediate assistance for this fire are not yet clear, the focus remains on preventing future incidents.
Khumalo’s message highlights a bigger need for awareness. In crowded places like hostels, simple steps like not leaving stoves unattended, checking electrical wiring, and having fire extinguishers can save lives. The city runs programs to teach fire safety, especially in high-risk areas like Alexandra, where old buildings and illegal connections raise dangers.
Residents are cautioned to practice fire safety at all times to avoid more incidents. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
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