Fire ravages Asoprochona Railway slum, leaving hundreds homeless

A devastating fire broke out Monday night at the slum settlement adjacent to the Asoprochona railway station in Sakumono, leaving hundreds of residents homeless and distraught.

Eyewitnesses say the fire started around 7 p.m. and rapidly consumed the densely packed wooden structures, fueled by the proximity of the makeshift homes and flammable materials.

The affected area, spanning approximately 100 meters by 40 meters, was home to numerous families who had little or no time to salvage belongings as flames spread uncontrollably.

According to Tema Regional Operations Officer, DO II Fiifi Oppong, four fire tenders from various stations in Tema, Nungua, and along the Spintex Road were deployed to battle the blaze, which took nearly two hours to subdue.

“I have lost everything including the lace fabrics I usually hawk to support my family,” said Amina, a mother of two who watched her home and livelihood disappear.

Another resident, Godwin Asalatu, recounted how his friend lost all savings and preparations for his father’s upcoming funeral. By nightfall, displaced residents were seen sitting near the Mount Zion Methodist Church, staring in shock at the ruins of their former homes.

The cause of the fire is yet to be officially determined, though some residents suspect an electrical fault or unattended cooking as likely triggers.

The tragedy has reignited concerns about the vulnerability of informal settlements and the urgent need for safer, more resilient housing for the urban poor. As the community reels from the disaster, survivors continue to sift through the ashes in search of remnants of their lives.