Retired Boksburg Teacher Demands Compensation After Losing Three Children In Gas Explosion

Nearly three years after the devastating Boksburg gas explosion that claimed 41 lives, families of the victims are still demanding accountability.

Among them is retired teacher Rose Mashaba, who tragically lost three of her adult children on 24 December 2022 when a truck carrying 6,000 litres of liquefied petroleum gas exploded under a low-lying bridge.

Mashaba, who had worked as a teacher for more than three decades, had hoped to enjoy retirement supported by her children. Instead, she was left heartbroken and struggling to cope with the aftermath.

“I will be happy if I can get something too because even their graves, I didn’t have money to buy them tombstones. I can use that money for that, I can fix the house and, obviously, the trust can pay for the education of their children,” Mashaba said.

Families File Multi-Million Rand Lawsuit

The explosion left not only emotional scars but also financial devastation. Families who lost loved ones, along with survivors, have now launched a multi-million-rand lawsuit.

The case targets the trucking company, the driver’s labour broker, and the City of Ekurhuleni, who they believe should be held responsible for the tragedy.

Mashaba’s home was also damaged by the blast. While she managed to replace broken windows, the walls and ceiling remain stained by smoke, a constant reminder of the day that changed her life forever.

Beyond Mashaba’s story, many survivors are still battling the physical and emotional scars of that day. Medical bills continue to pile up as they try to treat their injuries.

Local resident Winnie Chirimuta was knocked unconscious by the aftershock and says she has never fully recovered.

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“My chest, it’s not the way I used to breathe like before. That gas damaged us inside and the trauma, it’s not going. That emotional trauma is still killing us. Even if we see a truck, a tanker, you fear,” she explained.

Now working at an old-age nursing home, Chirimuta walks with a limp from a leg injury. Her husband also bears permanent burn scars, costing the family thousands in ongoing treatment.

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