The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has confirmed that the recently opened China City Mall in Kumasi had no fire hydrant or mechanised borehole, crucial systems that could have helped contain the massive fire that gutted the facility on Thursday, October 30.
The inferno, which destroyed the mall just six months after its opening, has reignited public concern over the poor state of fire safety infrastructure in many commercial properties across the country.
Divisional Officer II Desmond E. Ackah, Head of Public Relations at the GNFS, explained that the absence of a fire hydrant and an adequate water supply system severely hampered firefighting efforts.
“Fire hydrants and sufficient water storage are indispensable. Their absence can turn a manageable situation into a full-blown disaster,” Ackah said.
He noted that while businesses may commence operations once they meet basic fire safety standards, advanced systems such as hydrants and mechanised boreholes are expected to be installed within a reasonable time frame.
“You are allowed to begin operations after meeting the minimum requirements, but essential facilities like hydrants must be progressively added,” he stated.
According to Ackah, management of the China City Mall was aware of the outstanding safety requirements and had plans to install the necessary systems, but delays—believed to be due to financial constraints—meant the installations were never completed.
“These systems are capital-intensive but non-negotiable. Without them, buildings remain extremely vulnerable,” he cautioned.
The GNFS has since urged all commercial property owners and managers to review their fire safety infrastructure and ensure full compliance with national fire protection standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Source: modernghana
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