Three more people have succumbed to their injuries caused by a gas explosion in Boksburg on Christmas eve. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced on today that the death toll has risen to 40. He said 23 other people who were injured were discharged and were on the road to recovery at home.

HOPE LOST

Families of those who were admitted in hospital after the explosion were hopeful that those still being treated will make it back home but it has become one tragedy  after the other. During a media briefing in Newtown, Lesufi said he understood the pain felt by the families and that their lives will never be the same again. "We implore our health professionals to give the best care to those still on the road to recovery." Lesufi said his task was a difficult one because he has to visit all the families affected by the incident

REPAIRS UNDERWAY

MEC for Health in Gauteng Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko confirmed that refurbishments were underway at the Tambo Memorial Hospital. She said the windows were already replaced and the antenatal ward and X-ray ward which are among wards that were affected  are currently being renovated.

NURSES STILL HOSPITALISED

Nkomo-Ralehoko said five more health workers who were injured during the explosion remain in various hospitals across Ekurhuleni."Our reports, as I have indicated, are based on confirmed numbers but we know this may change as we get more confirmations from the facilities." She added that hospital staff members who are still traumatised by the explosion continue to receive counselling and support. A gas tanker got stuck under a low lying bridge in Boksburg.A leak caused by friction on the tanker led to an explosion that ended up claiming lives, damaging hospital infrastructure, two houses and two cars.