The Deputy Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Alhaji Alhassan Tapsoba, has blamed the rapid spread of the Adum Market fire on the congested nature of the area, which made it difficult for firefighters to access the burning shops.
Speaking to the media at the scene on Friday, March 21, he explained that although the emergency response team arrived on time, their efforts were delayed due to obstructed pathways, allowing the fire to spread further.
“The Fire Service did their best. The problem was how to get access to where the fire started,” he noted.
He further attributed the delay to wooden structures blocking the main roads leading to the affected area.
“The wooden structures built on the main way are what delayed [the response]. We are bringing bulldozers to clear the road so there will be access to the spot,” he added.
The massive fire outbreak at Adum Market, located in Kumasi’s Central Business District, destroyed several shops and properties. Firefighters battled the blaze for about five hours before bringing it under control, but the damage had already been extensive due to the presence of highly combustible materials.
The incident has renewed calls for better planning and accessibility in market areas to prevent future fire disasters.
