EC Public Works Dept to assess damage after Mthatha building fire

In the Eastern Cape, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is expected to conduct a damage assessment of the Botha Sigcau building in the Mthatha CBD.

It comes hours after firefighters managed to contain a blaze at the historic building.

It is still unclear what caused the blaze.

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The historic building is known for housing several government departments, including transport, social development and health, among others.

Most parts of the 11-storey building were destroyed.

Authorities said the provincial government will move with speed to determine the cause.

Public Works spokesperson Vuyani Nkasayi said they want to ensure service delivery is not delayed.

"The government wishes to assure the community of the OR Tambo District that every effort is being made to put contingency measures in place to ensure that critical service delivery functions continue uninterrupted. Further details regarding temporary arrangements will be communicated as soon as they become available.”

Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway.