3 severely burnt after stepping on hot ash

THREE people reportedly got severely burnt after stepping on hot ash dunes allegedly deposited by Surface Wilmar at a dumping site in Chitungwiza.

Surface Wilmar, which manufactures cooking oil, has its plant along New Chitungwiza Road industrial area.

The latest victim is a 12-year-old girl, Gladys Chihuri, who is battling for life at Harare Paediatric Ward (High Dependency Unit) after falling on the dunes on October 22. Two other minors were also severely burnt last week.

Gladys was on her way to church when the tragedy struck. Her father, Mr Chihuri, said his child’s condition has placed a huge burden on his shoulders.

“I am very disappointed with what happened because apart from my child having suffered serious burns, this incident has left me drained emotionally and financially,” said Mr Chihuri.

“There is no one to talk to in respect of this mishap. When I spoke to a security guard at Surface, he told me their company was not bothered by the incidences because it was not their problem, but Chitungwiza Municipality’s baby.

“No one is helping me to foot medical bills and I am spending more than $20 for dressings daily, it has become expensive and I cannot afford.”

Another resident, Mr Gift Chikwayi, said his friend also died last year after falling into the hot ash.

“My friend died last year at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals after falling into the hot ash. The cases of people who were burnt are rising each time and we encourage the responsible authorities to take action.

“Two weeks ago, another girl also got burnt on her way to church after walking on top of the ash and there are also three other cases that occurred,” he said.

The Herald, however, could not independently verify this claim.

Surface Wilmar chief executive officer Mr Sylvester Mangani said council should be held accountable.

“This is not our problem, but Chitungwiza Municipality should be held accountable to whatever is happening at the dumpsite. It (council) charges us money for dumping and what they should do is to control the activities happening there,” he said.

Chitungwiza Municipality manager (environmental health and solid waste) Mr Herbert Chiroodza said corrective measures are currently being put in place.