By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The number of people killed as a result of the Boksburg bridge explosion on December 24 had risen to 37 on Wednesday.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi conveyed condolences to those who lost loved ones during the explosion and vowed to continue providing government support to affected families.
“We continue to stand with the many families whose lives have been changed forever by the tragic incident. This has not been easy, particularly for those who lost their loved ones.
Lesufi said, “We implore our health professionals to provide the best care to those still on the road to recovery. “
The gas tanker exploded when it became stuck under a railway bridge in Boksburg near the Tambo Memorial Hospital on Christmas Eve.
About 50 people were injured, 35 of whom were hospital employees.
Twelve healthcare workers were among the 37 who died.
Of the eight Ekurhuleni Emergency Medical Services officials injured in the blast, two have been discharged. Six have been moved from the intensive care unit to normal wards.
The province said there was ongoing counselling to staff and their families, and to the bereaved families offered by clinical psychologists, social workers, and chaplains.
It said where necessary, government, working with organisations such as Gift of the Givers and AVBOB, have assisted with burial arrangements above other social relief measures offered to affected families.