A devastating fire has swept through a cluster of mechanic shops at Sofoline in the Kwadaso Municipality of the Ashanti Region, destroying more than 39 vehicles and several workshops.
The fire broke out around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday and rapidly spread through the area, razing numerous mechanic shops, engines and large quantities of upholstery materials. The incident has left many artisans and shop owners counting heavy losses, with livelihoods destroyed.
Eyewitnesses said firefighters arrived several minutes after the blaze started, by which time the fire had already intensified. Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) struggled to bring the inferno under control but eventually managed to prevent it from spreading to nearby facilities.
The cause of the fire remains officially unknown. However, some affected artisans suspect the blaze may have been triggered by refuse burning in the area. The GNFS has indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.
Officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are currently at the scene assessing the extent of damage caused by the fire.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has expressed concern about the incident and urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders.
“I have been informed of a fire incident this evening at Sofoline. The Ghana National Fire Service, supported by other security agencies, is currently on the ground working diligently to bring the situation under control,” he said.
Dr. Amoakohene also advised residents to adhere strictly to safety instructions and avoid the affected area to prevent further risks. He encouraged the public to take fire prevention measures seriously, especially during the dry season.
The Regional Minister is expected to visit the scene as assessments and investigations continue.
No casualties have been reported so far, but the incident has resulted in significant property damage and disrupted the livelihoods of many workers in the area.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
