Saturday, 04 July

Fire destroys structures at Odawna as flooding hampers emergency response

News
Fire accident at Odawna

A fire outbreak at Odawna, opposite the Adabraka Market in Accra, has destroyed several structures after burning for nearly an hour while floodwaters delayed access for emergency responders.

The blaze erupted on Monday morning amid persistent heavy rains that have triggered widespread flooding across the capital. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Residents watched helplessly as the flames spread through the area, with rising floodwaters making it difficult for firefighters to reach the scene promptly.

Speaking to Class News Assembly Member for the area, Hendrick Noble Kinnkah, said the flooding had significantly obstructed access to the affected community.

"The area is flooded, making access very difficult. They have now managed to get there, and we hope they will be able to bring the fire under control. Many people are stranded in the floodwaters," he said.

The delayed response has heightened concerns among residents, many of whom were forced to evacuate as the combined threat of flooding and fire endangered lives and property.

The incident comes as Accra battles extensive flooding following hours of continuous rainfall that began late Sunday and continued into Monday morning.

Several major roads and low-lying communities have been inundated, causing severe traffic congestion and disrupting movement across the city. Areas affected include sections of the N1 Highway, Apenkwa towards Tesano, the Accra–Kasoa Highway, Weija, Mallam, Achimota, Spintex, Atomic Junction in Madina, Kaneshie, Darkuman Junction and parts of the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange.

Residents are appealing for an intensified emergency response, warning that the ongoing rains and the fire could lead to further destruction if swift intervention is not sustained.

Authorities are yet to provide an official update on the extent of damage or confirm whether there have been any casualties.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Zita Okwang