Ghana National Fire Service in Ashanti Region faces logistical nightmare

ADO1 Antwi Bosiako, PR Department of the GNFS-Ashanti Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS)

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the Ashanti Region is facing a dire situation, with eight fire tenders completely breaking down, leaving the region vulnerable to fire outbreaks and emergencies.

Breakdown of fire tenders raises concerns

According to ADO1 Antwi Bosiako, a member of the PR Department of the GNFS-Ashanti, the region’s 25 fire stations and seven fire posts are now relying on a handful of aging vehicles that are in poor condition and at risk of breaking down at any moment.

In an interview on Otec FM’s morning show “Nyansapo,” hosted by Kwaku Owusu Boateng on Thursday, Bosiako disclosed that the affected stations include KMA City, Mampong, Bremang, KATH, Nyinahin, Kwadaso, Konongo, and New Edubiaso.

ADO1 Antwi Bosiako stated that the lack of reliable equipment is making firefighting operations “dangerously ineffective and potentially life-threatening”.

 “The situation has crippled the service’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to fire outbreaks and other emergencies, raising concerns among residents and businesses,” he added.

Government criticized for lack of support

Regional Fire Service leaders have openly blamed governments for the dire state of affairs.

ADO1 Antwi Bosiako blamed governments for failing to supply the service with new fire tenders and essential equipment, exacerbating the logistical crisis.

 “The last time the region took delivery of a fire tender was in 2016,” he stated.

According to them, “the public should not blame us. Blame the government for the service’s inability to provide adequate protection in times of fire emergencies”.

ADO1 Antwi Bosiako urged the government to take immediate action to address the situation and provide the necessary resources to enhance the service’s response capabilities.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah