Adum Fire: Developers defy city authorities, start reconstructing fire ravaged buildings

Some developers are rebuilding one of the three-storey buildings destroyed by a recent fire at Adum Blue Light Arena.

JoyNews cannot confirm who is responsible for the redevelopment. A structural integrity test is pending and has not been made public.

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has not taken action yet. This follows a notification from journalists during a press conference on Monday.

On March 21, a wildfire destroyed three-storey structures and many container stalls at Adum Blue Light Arena in Kumasi. The National Disaster Management Organisation reported that over 2,900 people were affected.

Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene halted rebuilding efforts. He emphasized the need for a structural integrity test first.

He stated, “Those buildings have sustained so much damage that they may collapse if we allow people to enter.”

Despite this, some reconstruction work is already underway. Sand, stones, and other materials are being moved into the arena.

Earlier this week, construction workers began clearing debris from one of the affected buildings. Some concrete works damaged by the fire have been removed and rebuilt on the ground floor.

During a press conference on Monday, media highlighted these developments to the City Mayor. In response, he said, “Whatever construction they do today will be demolished on Tuesday night.”

He warned that any immediate action could lead to chaos.

Several donations have come in for traders affected by the market fire. However, metro chief executive Richard Boadi expressed dissatisfaction with direct donations to traders.

He criticized members of the NPP party for donating cement without involving the government. He questioned what message this sends since victims do not own the land or structures.

For now, construction workers continue their efforts while some traders set up umbrellas to sell goods in the area.

Authorities are expected to provide clarity soon regarding the fate of affected traders eager to restart their lives.