The Daily

A Tragic Fire and Broken Promises in South Africa

24 snips
Sep 8, 2023
Lynsey Chutel, Southern Africa correspondent for The New York Times, sheds light on a tragic fire in Johannesburg that claimed 76 lives. She discusses the ignored warnings about the building's safety, highlighting Johannesburg's decline from a hopeful post-apartheid city to a crisis-ridden symbol of neglect. The conversation explores the dire housing situation, systemic failures, and the personal stories of survivors, painting a stark picture of resilience amidst tragedy in a rapidly deteriorating urban landscape.
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ANECDOTE

Johannesburg Fire

  • A devastating fire erupted in a Johannesburg building, claiming 77 lives.
  • Bodies were laid out in the streets, a scene of utter devastation.
INSIGHT

Johannesburg's Decay

  • Johannesburg, once a symbol of hope, now reflects South Africa's decay.
  • Recent disasters, like a street explosion and the fire, highlight this decline.
INSIGHT

Johannesburg's History

  • Johannesburg, born from a gold rush, became a diverse city marked by apartheid.
  • Post-apartheid, it flourished, hosting the 2010 World Cup, but later declined.
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