Lack Of Fire Hydrants Is A Ticking Time-Bomb For The Ghana National Fire Service
A story published by myjoyonline.com has reported that only five of about 30 fire hydrants inspected in the Ministries enclave in Accra are fully functional. The inspection was carried out by the Greater Accra Regional Fire Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), in collaboration with Ghana Water Limited (GWL), as part of efforts […] The post Lack Of Fire Hydrants Is A Ticking…
A recent inspection in Accra's Ministries enclave has revealed that only five of 30 fire hydrants are fully operational, while 23 are non-functional and two operate with low pressure. The Greater Accra Regional Fire Command, in partnership with Ghana Water Limited, discovered that the Controller and Accountant General's Department (CAGD) does not have a hydrant on its premises.
This situation presents a significant concern, as the enclave houses numerous important government institutions, making rapid access to water crucial for firefighting efforts. The situation is not isolated, as a 2021 report found that more than 550 out of 1,210 hydrants in nine regions were non-operational, with 126 in Greater Accra also reported unserviceable.
Recent incidents, including a fire near the Accra Arts Centre in June 2025 and a blaze at Madina Ritz Junction in August 2025, highlight the importance of maintaining functional fire hydrants. The Ghana National Fire Service emphasizes the need for preparedness, prevention, and response in their mission, and it is essential that government agencies collaborate to implement a time-bound plan for repairing the failed hydrants, addressing low-pressure points, and installing the missing facility at CAGD.
Regular testing, public records, and prompt reporting of faults are also vital components of a robust hydrant maintenance system. Time is of the essence, as a fire cannot wait for bureaucratic delays to materialize.
Written by urgent.news from The Chronicle Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
