North Industrial Area fire: AMA demolishes Kofikrom structures to create access routes

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), backed by the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, recently dismantled unauthorized structures in the Kofikrom area of the North Industrial Region following residents' refusal to vacate the premises by a May 29, 2026 deadline. This action came after a devastating fire that swept through the settlement on May 29, 2026, impacting parts of Duraplast, revealing the challenges emergency responders faced in reaching the affected zones.

The demolition specifically targeted wooden and temporary structures that had encroached upon sections of the road, hindering the access of fire tenders, water tankers, and other emergency vehicles. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who initiated the removal, emphasized that the decision was not impulsive but rather the result of prior notices and a final deadline given to the occupants.

Despite these warnings, many residents remained on the site. The Mayor noted that the consequences of their continued presence became evident during the fire outbreak, as emergency responders encountered difficulties navigating through the makeshift structures obstructing the road.

Allotey stressed that the AMA's primary objective was to clear the entire stretch to ensure uninterrupted access for emergency services and safeguard lives and property within industrial zones. He acknowledged that while such actions often provoke public criticism, the incident underscored the critical need for clear access routes to prevent future emergencies from escalating due to limited entry points.

The Mayor affirmed that such interventions are essential to protect both residents and businesses from potential dangers arising from unregulated construction within industrial areas.