04/09/2023
Fire in Johannesburg CBD: A Town Planner's Perspective.
On the morning of 30th August 2023, a fire broke out in Usindiso Building, a five-storey abandoned building in the Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD). The fire quickly spread, trapping many people inside.
The death toll has now reached 77, with over 50 others injured. The fire is recorded to be one of the deadliest in Johannesburg's history. This incident has highlighted the need for better fire safety
measures in the city, particularly in the CBD.
Here are some statistics about the fire:
• The fire started at around 1:30 AM on 30th August 2023.
• The fire was extinguished by firefighters at around 5:00 AM.
• The building that caught fire was a five-storey abandoned building on the corner of Albert and
Delvers Streets.
• The fire is believed to have started in the basement of the building.
• The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
• The death toll has now reached 77, with over 50 others injured.
• The fire has caused significant damage to the building and the surrounding area.
The CBD is a densely populated area with a lot of old buildings, and these buildings are often made of flammable materials which are not always well-maintained and makes them more susceptible to fire. In addition, the CBD is not well-equipped to deal with a large-scale fire. There are not enough fire hydrants, and the roads are not wide enough to allow for the quick movement of emergency vehicles.
The fire in the Johannesburg CBD is a tragedy, but it can also be a learning opportunity. By taking steps to improve fire safety and disaster preparedness, the city can help to prevent future tragedies. The town planning authorities need to take steps to improve fire safety in the CBD. This includes inspecting buildings for fire hazards, enforcing fire safety regulations, and providing better training for firefighters. The authorities also need to develop a disaster plan for the CBD that includes evacuation procedures and emergency response protocols.
Here are some actions Town Planners might take in order to make Johannesburg CBD safer:
1. Emergency Response: Town planners could collaborate with the relevant authorities, such as the fire department, to coordinate an immediate response to the burning building. This would involve
evacuating residents, ensuring their safety, and containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to nearby structures.
2. Assessing Structural Integrity: After the fire has been extinguished, town planners should assess the structural integrity of the building to determine if it can be repaired or if it needs to be demolished. This assessment is crucial for the safety of the community and to avoid any further accidents or collapses.
3. Zoning and Regulations: Town planners would review the zoning regulations and building codes to
ensure that the burned building is reconstructed according to the appropriate guidelines. They would
consider factors such as setback distances, building heights, and fire safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
4. Urban Revitalization: In some cases, a burned building might present an opportunity for urban
revitalization. Town planners would assess the area surrounding the building and propose plans for
redevelopment or repurposing of the space. This could involve creating new public spaces, mixed-use developments, or affordable housing options.
Recognising the role, we as Town Planners play in the well-being of our cities.
As town planners, we hold a significant responsibility in our cities. Acting as the middleman between civil society, government, and the corporate world, we have the unique opportunity to advocate for the best interests of our communities. By understanding the needs and aspirations of the people we serve, we can effectively communicate and collaborate with various stakeholders to promote sustainable development and create liveable spaces.
Our role as town planners goes beyond designing physical structures. Our expertise in urban planning allow us to address issues such as housing, environmental sustainability, public spaces and transportation to name a few. We have the power to influence policies and decisions that shape the future of our cities.
By actively engaging with the community, we can ensure that their voices are heard, and their concerns are addressed. This involvement not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their city.
4 September 2023
By Trida Banutelo
