The Deputy Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Alhaji Alhassan Tapsoba, says efforts are being made to clear blocked roads to allow firefighters access to the scene of the devastating fire at the Blue Light arena, near Hello FM, in Kumasi.

The fire, which began around 6 a.m., quickly spread, engulfing two-storey shops, as fire officers struggled to control the blaze.

His comments come after the fire caused extensive damage to the area, making it difficult for firefighters to reach the building.

Speaking to JoyNews' Nana Boakye Yiadom, Mr Tapsoba explained that wooden structures built along the railway are the primary obstacles preventing fire fighters from reaching the scene.

“When we went upstairs with the minister, the fire was still raging, and there was no access. You can see there is water in the tankers, but accessing the fire remains the main issue,” he said.

Mr Tapsoba outlined the steps they plan to take to resolve the situation, stating that they would seek approval from the minister to clear the blocked roads using excavators and bulldozers.

“We are seeking the minister’s approval to clear the area so that the fire service can gain access. We will bring in excavators and bulldozers to clear the road,” he explained.

When asked how long it would take to bring the fire under control, Tapsoba estimated that it could take around three to four hours, provided the access issues are resolved.

He stressed that once the roadblocks are cleared, firefighting teams would be able to extinguish the blaze quickly.

Mr Tapsoba reassured the public and the traders that once the accessibility problems were addressed, the fire would be brought under control promptly.

He emphasised that clearing the blocked roads is a priority, which would allow the fire fighters to reach the affected area and bring the fire to an end as soon as possible.