The Association of Regional Chambers of Commerce (ARCC) is calling on the government to grant the necessary concessions so that businesses hit by the Pitt street, New Amsterdam fire on Friday night can be resumed in some tangible form.
The ARCC is also urging the banks to grant the businessmen a waiver on their interest payments wherever applicable.
A release from the association also appealed to other organisations: "Let us join together and give our support to the scores of employees who are now without jobs and have families to maintain."
ARCC extended its sympathy to all the businessmen, stallholders and homeowners affected, as well as to the residents of the entire New Amsterdam township and its environs in the wake of the recent fire disaster.
ARCC noted too that this was the second fire in two years within the same vicinity and again the fire tenders were reportedly not functioning effectively.
The regional chambers body hoped the relevant authorities would make this issue a priority, the release added.