Fire Guts $259m Ketetia Market

Fire has gutted parts of the US$259,425,000 redeveloped Kejetia Market in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi.

The unfortunate incident occurred yesterday Tuesday March 15, 2023 at around 4: 30pm but no casualty was recorded, The Anchor gathered.

The source of the fire at the time of filing this report was not known but live reports said several shops and wares, were destroyed by the inferno. This means millions of Ghana Cedis, was lost in the process.

Pictures and videos of the blaze which went viral on social media as the Ghana National Fires Service (GNFS) struggled to quench, left many in awe.

Many eyewitnesses who were stunned could not do much as they stood and watched helplessly discussing the issue.

Reports said the GNFS which has a station in the market tried to bring the fire under control but their efforts were not enough as they appeared overwhelmed and  helpless.

Some eyewitnesses who gave separate accounts said even though fire tankers from elsewhere arrived on time, they had no water. Several security officers including the Police, were also at the scene to ensure calm.

An eyewitness said they cannot tell how the fire started but alleged that all he saw was that a thick smoke was emanating from one part of the market and the blaze spread to other parts.

Many had tried to salvage their wares but not much was collected as the ravaging fire appeared dangerous to do so.

Videos of traders including mothers with their babies tied at their back were seen jumping from the tall market building. By 6pm, the naked fire had been curtailed except the smoke reports said.

The first phase of the redevelopment started in 2015 and was valued at a cost of US$259,425,000 by the John Dramani Mahama government.

It was constructed by a Brazilian construction firm, Contract a Engenharia Limited, financing from the Brazilian government.

The project was to be constructed in three phases but the first phase was commissioned by the former President, however the next phase was expected to commence in 2019 but it stalled.

The $259-million facility, has facilities such as CCTV systems powered by a solar power generation plant on the roof, modern sewerage and waste management facilities, a water reservation and sewer treatment station, among others.

It has over 10,000 stores and stalls.

Mr Mahama on Monday December 5, 2016, commission the Market touted as the largest Market in West-African sub-region considering the closeness of the area to neighbouring countries.

Source:  Anchorghana