In a troubling turn of events, Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital has been struck by a second fire in less than a week, raising serious concerns about safety and emergency infrastructure at one of Gauteng’s key healthcare facilities.
The Gauteng Department of Health confirmed that firefighters from the City of Ekurhuleni are currently on site, battling the flames that broke out early this morning in the hospital’s main Outpatient Department (OPD).
A Pattern of Danger Emerging
This latest incident follows closely on the heels of another fire that erupted on April 19 in the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit, forcing the evacuation of 81 patients and a temporary shutdown of that section. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported in that incident.
As of now, no casualties have been confirmed in the latest OPD blaze, but authorities are working swiftly to contain the situation and ensure patient and staff safety.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available,” a spokesperson from the department said.
Investigation and Emergency Response
While the cause of the first fire remains under investigation, the recurrence of such an event within days has prompted calls for a comprehensive audit of the hospital’s fire safety systems and protocols.
Fire crews have cordoned off the affected area, and emergency protocols have been activated. Hospital operations in other sections are continuing with caution, though disruptions are expected.
Public and Political Reaction
Health activists and members of the public have taken to social media expressing concern over the incidents, with many questioning the readiness of public hospitals to deal with such crises. The Gauteng Department of Health is expected to release a full report following an investigation into both fires.
This developing story has drawn national attention, not only for the risk to life and infrastructure but for what it may reveal about systemic challenges facing South Africa’s public healthcare facilities.
Stay with us for more updates as the situation at Tembisa Hospital unfolds
