Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey has pledged to provide additional water tankers to support the operations of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), following concerns about inadequate water supply during fire outbreaks in the capital.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Mayor gave the assurance after a recent fire incident in Accra, which highlighted ongoing logistical challenges faced by firefighters, particularly the difficulty in accessing water quickly during emergencies.

“We are committed to providing additional water tankers to support the operations of the Ghana National Fire Service,” Mr Allotey said.

“We are going to make sure that anytime we will try our best to provide tankers for most of the fire stations so that when there is an outbreak like this, you will have extra water.”

His comments come amid growing public concern over recurring fire incidents in Accra, especially in congested markets and residential areas. In several cases, fire officers have been forced to search for water from nearby sources, a situation that often delays response efforts and worsens the extent of damage.

Mr Allotey admitted that the current arrangement is not ideal and must be improved to ensure faster and more effective firefighting. “Not now, they will look for water somewhere,” he said, describing the difficulties fire officers face when outbreaks occur.

As part of steps to address the problem, the AMA Mayor said he plans to engage the leadership of the GNFS to explore practical solutions. “I’m going to talk to the fire boss to see how best we can do it,” he added.

The Ghana National Fire Service has repeatedly appealed for better logistical support, including water tankers, fire tenders and modern equipment.

With Accra’s rapid urbanisation, poor electrical wiring and congestion continuing to increase fire risks, city authorities say improving fire preparedness remains a priority.

The Mayor’s pledge is expected to bring renewed attention to fire safety in the capital, as residents and traders look forward to concrete measures that will enhance the GNFS’s ability to protect lives and property.