Efforts for search and rescue operations are currently underway, as affirmed by the city administration through its communication on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter.

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services has confirmed the distressing increase in the number of fatalities, with the toll rising to 63.

The fire engulfed the building, which had been abandoned at one stage but where people had been living. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

The government has promised to investigate the cause of the fire and to take steps to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future. (ILKHA)