The Ashanti Regional Caucus of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament has issued a strong call for a permanent policy framework to address the recurring problem of market fires in the Ashanti Region. This call comes in the wake of a devastating midnight inferno that ravaged the Suame Post Office Market on Tuesday, August 26, 2024, resulting in the destruction of numerous shops and goods worth millions of cedis. The MPs expressed grave concern over the alarming frequency of these destructive fires in major Ashanti markets in recent months, emphasizing that mere expressions of sympathy and promises from the government are insufficient to address the plight of traders who are repeatedly losing their livelihoods. The caucus demands concrete action, including a comprehensive policy framework, transparent investigations, immediate relief packages for affected traders, and the urgent implementation of modern fire safety systems in markets across the region.
The caucus’s statement, released on August 27 and signed by its secretary, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for a permanent solution. The MPs argue that the recurring nature of these market fires points to a systemic issue that requires more than just reactive measures. They demand accountability and swift action from the government to protect the livelihoods of traders who are bearing the brunt of these devastating incidents. The caucus pledges to raise the matter forcefully in Parliament to ensure that the affected traders receive the necessary support and justice. They insist that the government must demonstrate a commitment to addressing this issue proactively rather than simply responding after the fact.
The Suame Post Office Market fire, which began around midnight on August 26, spread rapidly, fueled by the explosion of several gas cylinders. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has conducted preliminary assessments, revealing the extent of the damage: 25 out of 44 shops were affected, and 192 sheds were completely destroyed. While thankfully, no casualties have been reported, according to DO II Peter Addai, the Public Relations Officer of the GNFS in the Ashanti Region, the economic impact on the traders is significant. The destruction of their businesses represents a substantial loss of income and livelihood, further emphasizing the need for government intervention and support.
The recurring market fires in the Ashanti Region highlight a critical need for improved fire safety measures and preventative strategies. The caucus’s demand for a comprehensive policy framework reflects a growing consensus that a more proactive approach is required to address this recurring problem. This framework should encompass a range of measures, including stricter regulations for the storage and handling of flammable materials in markets, regular fire safety inspections, the installation of modern fire suppression systems, and public awareness campaigns to educate traders and market users about fire safety practices. Such a framework would go beyond simply reacting to fires and aim to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
Beyond the immediate need for fire safety improvements, the repeated occurrence of these fires raises broader questions about urban planning and infrastructure development in the region. Overcrowded market spaces, inadequate access for fire trucks, and the lack of proper firebreaks contribute to the rapid spread of fires. A comprehensive solution requires addressing these underlying infrastructural issues, including redesigning market spaces to incorporate fire safety considerations, ensuring adequate access for emergency services, and implementing urban planning strategies that prioritize fire prevention. This proactive approach to urban development is crucial to safeguarding the livelihoods of traders and the economic vitality of the region.
The Ashanti Regional Caucus’s call for action represents a crucial step towards addressing the recurring problem of market fires. Their demands for a comprehensive policy framework, transparent investigations, and immediate relief packages highlight the urgency of the situation and the need for a coordinated and sustained effort to protect the livelihoods of traders and prevent future disasters. The government’s response to this call will be critical in demonstrating its commitment to the safety and economic well-being of the people of the Ashanti Region. A proactive and comprehensive approach that addresses both the immediate needs of affected traders and the underlying infrastructural issues is essential to ensure the long-term safety and prosperity of the region’s markets.
