The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has once again urged municipal and district assemblies to re-examine accessibility to market centers across Accra, following a destructive fire outbreak at the Madina Market on Friday morning, September 19, 2025.
According to eyewitnesses, the blaze began around 1:00 a.m. Firefighters responded swiftly with four fire tenders but faced significant delays due to poor accessibility within the market area.
After several minutes of struggle, the GNFS managed to bring the fire under control, successfully salvaging a one-storey warehouse and adjoining structures. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined and remains under investigation.
Speaking to 3news, the Greater Accra Regional Fire Commander ACFO I Rashid Nisawu, expressed grave concern about the recurring challenge of limited access in market squares, which hampers firefighting efforts and often leads to higher levels of destruction.
He stressed that inadequate space for fire tenders to maneuver poses serious risks whenever such disasters occur. He called on local assemblies to consider re-engineering market spaces to create proper access routes that would enable faster response times and reduce the scale of destruction during future emergencies.
Some affected traders echoed the commander’s concerns, lamenting the devastating impact of recurring fires on their livelihoods. They emphasized that lack of accessible routes not only worsens the damage but also undermines their confidence in the safety of their businesses.
The Madina Market fire marks the fourth recorded fire incident in Accra within just one week, raising fresh alarm over safety in trading hubs. The GNFS has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property but insists that preventive measures, especially structural re-designs of market areas, are crucial to minimizing risks.
As investigations continue, Friday’s incident underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive review of urban planning in market spaces to enhance safety, protect livelihoods, and prevent future disasters.
Source:Lovinghananews.com
