China City Mall Had No Fire Hydrant – GNFS Confirms
Fire Service says absence of key safety facilities worsened Thursday’s inferno at Santasi
- GNFS confirms China City Mall lacked essential fire safety infrastructure
- Officials say the blaze could have been contained earlier with proper water systems
- GNFS urges stricter enforcement of fire regulations after the Kumasi incident
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has disclosed that the China City Mall in Kumasi, which was consumed by fire on Thursday, October 30, had no fire hydrant or mechanised borehole to help combat the flames.
According to the Head of Public Relations at the GNFS, Divisional Officer II Desmond E. Ackah, the absence of these crucial safety installations contributed significantly to the rapid spread of the inferno.
Speaking on Friday, October 31, Mr. Ackah explained that the mall, which had been in operation for just six months, was still in the process of meeting certain fire safety requirements.
“No, they didn’t have a fire hydrant. Once you meet the basic fire safety requirements, you are permitted to start operations. But the process is progressive — you move from the less costly measures to the more capital-intensive ones,” he clarified.
He further noted that the mall’s management was expected to install either a fire hydrant or an alternative water storage system but had not yet done so.
“They were going to be asked to get a fire hydrant or an alternative water storage, but that has not been done yet. Some of these installations are expensive, and perhaps that’s why they hadn’t completed them before starting operations,” he added.
Mr. Ackah emphasized that the blaze could have been contained much earlier if the right water systems had been available. He also expressed concern over the actions of some bystanders who obstructed fire personnel during the operation.
The GNFS spokesperson stressed the need for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations and improved public awareness of emergency response procedures.
The fire, which engulfed the China City Mall at Santasi in Kumasi, completely destroyed the building and its contents — including shops selling electronics, groceries, and household goods. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen from miles away as firefighters battled to douse the flames.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
