The fire that broke out at Elgin Fruit Juice in Grabouw earlier today (Friday) has been brought under control.
The Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association (FPA) and Theewaterskloof Municipality have confirmed that mopping up operations are now underway. According to a press release by Theewaterskloof Municipality the fire broke out about 13:45 today at the factory located in Pine Street, Grabouw.
“Theewaterskloof Municipality activated the Fire and Disaster Management Services of the Overberg District Municipality, which dispatched five fire engines and crews from the Grabouw and Caledon fire stations. [The crews are] contracted to provide firefighting efforts on behalf of the municipality,” the statement read.
Strong wind conditions resulted in the blaze spreading to Gaffleys Transport Services and jumped across the road into the informal settlement area next to the Grabouw Water Treatment Works.
“The initial assessments conducted indicates that approximately 50 informal structures were destroyed, leaving approximately 200 people displaced. The municipality has concurrently deployed officials to assess the damages to private houses along Ou Kaapse Weg and to assess whether any assistance will be required.”
In light of the inclement weather conditions forecasted for this weekend, the Theewaterskloof Municipality has opened community halls in the area for emergency shelter for accommodation. No injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far. At this stage the cause of the fire is unknown and an investigation is expected to be launched.
