By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has suspended all reconstruction works at the Timber Market following last Saturday’s devastating fire, pending the outcome of investigations by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
The directive was issued when the Metro Coordinating Director, Mr. Douglas N.K. Annoful, led a team of AMA officials to the scene on behalf of the Mayor of Accra, Mr Michael Kpakpo Allotey, on Tuesday, September 16, 20205.
Mr. Annoful explained that the temporary halt was necessary to allow the GNFS and AMA to conduct a thorough assessment of the incident and design a safe, well-structured recovery plan.
“Any unauthorised structures erected before investigations and planning are concluded will be demolished,” he warned.
He added that the AMA would rely on GNFS findings to prepare a comprehensive reconstruction and safety plan, with lessons from the Kantamanto Market fire recovery serving as a guide to ensure proper demarcation, improved access routes, and a safer trading environment.
Mr. Annoful extended condolences to the hundreds of traders whose livelihoods were destroyed in the blaze and praised GNFS officers for their bravery in battling the inferno. He revealed that firefighters faced major obstacles, including having to break through a school wall to gain access to the market.
The Coordinating Director urged traders to be vigilant and report individuals who block access routes or erect unauthorised structures, stressing that the AMA’s Sanitation Court remains active and will prosecute offenders.
The GNFS is yet to issue its full report on the cause of the fire, which gutted dozens of stalls and timber sheds in one of Accra’s busiest commercial hubs.
