A massive fire has gutted a cluster of mechanic shops at Sofoline in the Kwadaso Municipality of the Ashanti Region, destroying more than 100 vehicles and several workshops.
The blaze broke out around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 25 and spread rapidly through the area, consuming mechanic sheds, engines and large quantities of upholstery materials.
The incident has left many artisans and shop owners counting heavy losses, with livelihoods severely affected.
Eyewitnesses said personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived minutes after the fire started, but by then the flames had already intensified.
Firefighters battled the inferno for several hours and eventually managed to contain it, preventing it from spreading to nearby facilities.
Although the exact cause of the fire has not yet been officially established, some affected artisans believe it may have been triggered by refuse burning in the area.
The GNFS has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause. Officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are currently at the scene assessing the extent of damage.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, expressed concern over the incident and called for calm as emergency operations continue.
“I have been informed of a fire incident this evening at Sofoline. The Ghana National Fire Service, supported by other security agencies, is currently on the ground working diligently to bring the situation under control,” he said.
Dr. Amoakohene further advised residents to strictly adhere to safety directives and avoid the affected area to prevent further risks. He also urged the public to take fire prevention measures seriously, particularly during the dry season.
The Regional Minister is expected to visit the scene as assessments and investigations continue.
No casualties have been reported, but the fire has caused extensive property damage and disrupted the livelihoods of many workers in the area.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh / Isaac Justice Bediako
