The City’s Environmental Health department cautions residents in the Durban Central and surrounding areas about the fumes emanating from the China Emporium on Dr Pixley KaSame Street which was gutted by fire.

Operations to control the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings is underway and City’s Fire and  Emergency Services remain on site to extinguish smouladering debris in the affected building.

With smoke still emanating from the building, the public is urged to take precautions when in the area.

Areas affected may vary depending on wind direction, and currently include Durban Central, Berea, Musgrave, Congela, Glenwood, Wilsons Wharf and Maydon Wharf.

Residents are advised to close their windows and doors and to put wet cloths over ventilators until the smoke clears. When it clears residents are advised to air out their homes.

It is estimated that the smoke may last for a few days. Officials will be on site until the situation is resolved.

Ends

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit.