The Tema Community One Market, located on Mangoase Lane, experienced a devastating fire outbreak in the early hours of Thursday, impacting eight shops and leaving traders counting their losses. The fire, which ignited around 2:00 am, was successfully extinguished by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) following swift response to distress calls. The rapid intervention prevented further spread and potentially greater damage. Preliminary observations suggest the fire originated from faulty electrical wiring, as sparking cables were witnessed prior to the outbreak. The incident underscores the critical need for proactive fire safety measures within market environments.
The inferno consumed a variety of goods within the affected shops, including wigs, sewing machines, clothing, and furniture. Mr. Kwaku Alebpoorin, a market caretaker, provided an eyewitness account, stating he observed smoke emanating from a section of the market and immediately alerted authorities. His observation of sparking electrical cables before the fire’s rapid spread strengthens the suspicion of an electrical fault as the cause. The swift response of the fire service, arriving on the scene promptly, undoubtedly minimized the damage.
Several affected traders shared their experiences, painting a picture of shock and loss. Mr. Derrick Pabi, a tailor, described arriving at the scene around 3:15 am to find fire service personnel and police officers already present, with the fire under control. Madam Portia Quaye, a seamstress, recounted receiving a call around 4:00 am informing her of the fire. By the time she reached the market, the fire service had already contained the blaze. These accounts highlight the devastating impact on the livelihoods of those operating businesses within the market.
Divisional Officer II (DOII) Ebenezer Yenzu, Tema Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, provided an official assessment of the damage. Eight shops were affected in total, with three experiencing extensive damage due to intense burning, while the remaining five sustained partial damage. While the exact cause remains under investigation, DOII Yenzu confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the precise origin of the fire and implement preventative measures against future occurrences.
The GNFS is actively engaging with market traders to emphasize fire safety measures. This proactive approach aims to equip traders with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent fires, handle flammable materials responsibly, and respond effectively in emergencies. This educational initiative is crucial in mitigating future risks and ensuring the safety of both traders and their businesses. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness.
The affected traders have appealed to authorities for support in recovering from their losses, highlighting the significant economic impact of the fire. The incident underscores the vulnerability of market environments and the need for comprehensive fire safety protocols, including regular inspections of electrical systems and training for traders on preventative measures. The GNFS’s commitment to ongoing fire safety education and its thorough investigation into the cause of the fire are crucial steps in safeguarding the market community and preventing future tragedies. The combined efforts of authorities, traders, and the community as a whole are essential in creating a safer market environment.
