The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has halted the establishment of a new lorry terminal at the Blue Light Arena in Adum following the devastating fire that gutted parts of the market last week.
This comes after the Kumasi Traditional Council ordered the demolition of structures put up for the terminal. However, during a visit to the site, it was discovered that construction was nearing completion despite the council’s directive.
“We realized that a new station was being set up under the footbridge, which should not happen. I engaged the person who had taken over the space and instructed him to halt all activities there,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.
He further directed the police and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) to ensure the area is cleared.
The construction of sheds and tiling of the terminal was already completed, and the facility was set to begin operations soon.
The fire disaster, which affected three buildings and several makeshift structures occupied by traders, has left many victims stranded. Though the police have cordoned off the affected area, some individuals have attempted to return and occupy the space.
Dr. Amoakohene emphasized that the police have been tasked with preventing traders from resettling until a structural integrity assessment is fully addressed.
“The damage to these buildings is severe. If we do not take immediate steps to intervene, allowing people back into the structures could result in a collapse, leading to further tragedies,” he warned.
He disclosed that a structural integrity test had been conducted and the report was ready. Discussions with the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) were scheduled for Thursday to review and approve key recommendations in the report.
Meanwhile, affected traders have been urged to remain patient as they await the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s decision on the future of the land.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
