Boksburg Gas Explosion Victims Seek Justice Through Multi-Million Lawsuit
Black families affected by the 2022 Boksburg gas explosion launch multi-million rand lawsuit seeking justice and compensation, highlighting persistent inequalities in post-apartheid industrial safety.
Aftermath of the Boksburg gas explosion that claimed 41 lives and devastated local Black communities
A retired Black educator who lost three adult children in the devastating 2022 Boksburg gas explosion has joined other victims in demanding compensation, highlighting ongoing systemic inequalities in post-apartheid South Africa's industrial safety standards.
The Human Cost of Industrial Negligence
Rose Mashaba, who dedicated over three decades to education before retirement, faces a heart-wrenching battle for justice after losing three children who were supporting her post-retirement life. The tragedy echoes broader patterns of economic disparities affecting working-class communities in South Africa.
"I will be happy if I can get something too because even their graves, I didn't have money to buy them tombstones. I can use that money for that, I can fix the house and, obviously, the trust can pay for the education of their children," Mashaba explained.
Multi-Million Rand Legal Action
The lawsuit targets multiple entities, including the trucking company, the driver's labour broker, and the City of Ekurhuleni. This legal action mirrors other cases of community struggles for justice and accountability across South Africa.
Devastating Impact on Community
The explosion, caused by a truck carrying 6,000 litres of liquefied petroleum gas becoming trapped under a low-lying bridge, claimed 41 lives and left numerous others injured. The incident has exposed serious concerns about infrastructure management and property rights in historically marginalized areas.
Ongoing Health and Economic Struggles
- Survivors face mounting medical bills
- Many experience persistent health issues
- Psychological trauma continues to affect victims
- Property damage remains unaddressed
Healthcare worker Winnie Chirimuta, who suffered severe injuries, exemplifies the ongoing struggles: "My chest, it's not the way I used to breathe like before. That gas damaged us inside and the trauma, it's not going."
Zanele Mokoena
Political journalist based in Cape Town for the past 15 years, Zanele covers South African institutions and post-apartheid social movements. Specialist in power-civil society relations.