The Private Universities Students Association of Ghana (PUSAG) has called for a swift investigation into Thursday’s devastating fire incident that swept through the Kantamanto Market, destroying goods worth millions of Ghana Cedis.
The Association wants a thorough investigation aimed at finding a lasting solution to the perennial infernos in markets across the country to protect investments of traders.
A statement released by the Association sympathised with the traders and stressed the urgent need for authorities to take steps to unravel what has become an annual ritual in major markets in the country.
The statement signed by Mr. Ibrahim Issah, the President of PUSAG and copied to the Ghana News Agency, said the nation could not overlook the recurrence of markets fires.
“The tragic event has not only resulted in the loss of livelihoods but has also reignited concerns about the persistent vulnerability of our major markets to such disasters,” portions of the statement read.
It revealed that research has shown that between 2010 and 2023, Ghana recorded over 50 major market fire incidents.
Kantamanto and other key markets such as Makola, Kejetia, and Kumasi Central Market were among the hardest hit, according to the statement.
It said findings from these studies attributed many of these fires to electrical faults from overloaded circuits, outdated wiring systems, poor fire safety infrastructure, including the absence of accessible water sources and firefighting equipment.
Additionally, inadequate enforcement of safety regulations for market structures was also identified as part of the issues.
“The inability to implement sustainable preventive measures after previous incidents underscores the need for accountability and reform,” it stated.
PUSAG also called for proactive measures by the Government and Transition Team of the incoming administration to prevent future occurrence.
The safety of traders and their investments must be prioritised by implementing advanced fire prevention technologies, including fire detection systems and thermal cameras.
Electrical systems and infrastructure in markets must be upgraded and a national task force to monitor and enforce compliance with fire safety regulations.
“We believe advanced technology such as AI-powered monitoring systems and automated fire suppression tools, must be leveraged to ensure markets are protected,” the Association suggested.
GNA