President John Dramani Mahama has visited the scene of a devastating fire at Adum-Kumasi in the Ashanti region where an early morning blaze destroyed several shops and properties.

The president, who was in the Ashanti Region for a separate engagement, diverted to assess the situation firsthand.

He was welcomed by the Ashanti Regional Minister, who had earlier toured the affected area.

Briefing the former president, fire service officials explained that the market’s layout posed significant challenges in containing the fire, leading to extensive damage.

Mahama assured victims that discussions were already underway with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the Chief of Staff to coordinate relief efforts.

He emphasised the need for both immediate and long-term assistance to help traders recover from their losses.

Addressing the affected traders and market operators, he cautioned against using gas cylinders in the market, citing the fire risks they pose.

He further assured that a full report on the fire will determine appropriate measures, including restructuring the market to prevent future incidents.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Friday, March 21, gutted several shops housed in two-storey buildings in the bustling commercial district.

The fire at the popular Blue Light arena, close to Hello FM, started around 6 am and spread rapidly as fire fighters attempted to contain the blaze.