Death toll from Boksburg tanker explosion rises to 40

Lesufi provided an update on the Christmas Eve explosion on Thursday.

The tanker, which was transporting liquid petroleum gas, exploded after it became stuck under a low-lying bridge in the Plantation residential area.

On Tuesday, the Gauteng Department of Health held a healing service in memory of the 12 healthcare workers, from Tambo Memorial Hospital, who are part of the 37 people that died following the explosion.

Lesufi said the death toll has increased to 40 after three more people succumbed to their injuries.

"There are five people that are still in various hospitals and 23 have been discharged. Our report is based on the confirmed numbers, it might change as we get more confirmations from the facilities.

“With regards to the eight Ekurhuleni Emergency Medical Services personnel that were injured during the explosion, the status quo is still as per our last update. Six have been discharged, while two remain in hospital," said Lesufi.

He said the provincial Department of Infrastructure Development already appointed a contractor on 26th December to repair the damage to the nearby Tambo Memorial Hospital.

"We can confirm that the construction work for the replacement of broken windows at the hospital, including the nurse’s residence has been completed. 

“Some of the work is almost at the completion stage, following delays because of the festive period break. Due to the extent of the damage, the casualty unit at the hospital remains closed.”

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