It’s been almost two years since the gas truck explosion shook Boksburg on December 24, 2022, killing several people, including nurses near OR Tambo Memorial Hospital. Now, efforts to fix the damage are finally speeding up.
MMC for Roads and Transport Planning, Andile Mngwevu, along with PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) officials, visited the explosion site, where the blast left the railway bridge and nearby roads badly damaged. Since then, commuters and locals have struggled with the disruption. Repairs have been slow, and both the railway and roads are still not fully functional, making things difficult for everyone who depends on them.
At the site, Cllr Mngwevu highlighted the need for the City of Ekurhuleni and PRASA to work together to speed up the reconstruction. “This is not just about fixing roads and railways,” Mngwevu said. “It’s about bringing back safety and normal life for everyone affected by this disaster. The longer we wait, the more we inconvenience the community and commuters.”
Residents living close to the explosion site are also still feeling the impact. Many homes were damaged in the blast, and some haven’t been fully repaired. For these families, the slow recovery is a painful reminder of that tragic day, adding to their frustration.
PRASA officials agreed with Mngwevu, saying it’s important to get the railway bridge fixed to ease the pressure on the area’s transport system. They promised that new measures were being put in place to fast-track the repairs, and they expect the work to move faster from now on.
The visit ended with a promise from the City and PRASA to improve communication and work better with the affected community. Local residents are hopeful that this renewed focus on the site will finally bring them some relief after such a long wait.
As repairs continue, the memory of those who lost their lives in the explosion, especially the brave healthcare workers, remains strong.
This push for faster recovery isn’t just about fixing what’s broken — it’s about helping Boksburg heal from this tragedy.
By Ncamiso Dlamini