The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has commended the Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyeman, for his instrumental role in supporting firefighting efforts during the devastating blaze that engulfed the China City Mall at Santasi on Thursday.
Speaking in an interview on Morning Starr with Joshua Kodjo Mensah on Friday, October 31, the Head of Public Relations of the GNFS, Divisional Officer (DO II) Desmond E. Ackah, said the Mayor’s timely intervention significantly boosted the operation and helped prevent further destruction.
“In fact, the mayor was there and was very supportive. He helped in mobilising some free water tankers, as well as some aid workers and helpers, to be able to pull down some of the compromised structures,” Mr. Ackah said.
He noted that the firefighting team faced serious water supply challenges due to the absence of a hydrant at the scene and had to shuttle between nearby communities to fetch water.
The Mayor’s provision of additional tankers, he said, proved crucial in bringing the situation under control.
“Having gotten the three water tankers, it really helped in confining the fire to just the affected mall structure,” he added.
Mr. Ackah further disclosed that the fire, which started around 3 p.m. in a warehouse on the first floor, has been “totally extinguished,” with no casualties recorded. He said investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the blaze.
The inferno, which destroyed the main China City Mall block and goods worth thousands of cedis, could have spread to adjoining buildings if not for the swift coordination between the GNFS, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, and local volunteers.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
