Runaway fire leaves Pongola farm manager critical as MEC warns of veld fire dangers
The KwaZulu-Natal Cogta MEC has warned local authorities about the dangers of veld fires amid dry and windy conditions in the province.
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A farm manager is in a critical condition after sustaining severe burn injuries during a runaway veld fire near Pongola on Wednesday afternoon.
According to IPSS Medical Rescue, their Advanced Life Support Paramedic responded to the farm where community members and paramedics braved the flames to reach the victim.
“Once stabilised by paramedics, the man was carried to the waiting Netcare 911 Medivac Chopper. He has been airlifted to a Level 1 trauma facility for the specialised treatment he requires,” the service said.
The paramedic who attended the scene is part of a dedicated Advanced Life Support project based in Pongola, funded by the local community and businesses.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, commended the “remarkable bravery and efficiency” of all involved in the rescue.
“The dedication displayed by all first responders is a testament to the calibre and commitment of our emergency services in the province. We are immensely grateful for their swift action, which was crucial in stabilising the patient before airlifting him to a specialised facility,” he said.
Buthelezi extended his support to the injured man’s family. “We extend our heartfelt wishes to the victim for a full and speedy recovery, and our thoughts are with their family during this distressing time.”
The MEC said the incident highlighted the persistent risk of veld fires across KwaZulu-Natal, with dry and windy conditions fuelling danger.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent danger of veld fires facing the province. We urge all residents, landowners, and motorists to be vigilant and adhere to all fire safety regulations,” he said.
Residents are advised not to start fires in open areas, to dispose of cigarette butts safely, to maintain firebreaks around homes and farms, to be cautious when using spark-producing equipment, and to report runaway fires immediately.
Buthelezi said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre continues to monitor conditions with district and local municipalities.
“The safety of our communities is our foremost priority. We will continue to support our municipalities to ensure they have the resources needed to protect lives and property,” he said.