A safety inspection by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has uncovered serious fire risks at the Pankrono Market in the Ashanti Region.

This raises fears that thousands of traders and customers may be in danger if immediate corrective measures are not taken.

During the operation, NADMO officers found exposed electrical wires, poorly installed wiring systems, and traders cooking inside the market, despite previous warnings. Officers seized one coal pot from a stall where cooking was taking place.

Regional NADMO Director, Alhaji Abdul Nasir Mohammed, described the situation as “a serious matter that must be addressed urgently.”

The inspection further revealed rusty and deteriorating cold stores, some in such poor condition that they pose both structural and electrical hazards. Traders also complained about frequent theft, noting that the entire Pankrono Market is protected by only one security officer.

NADMO says the combination of poor wiring, cooking in stalls, and rusty cold stores creates a high-risk environment that could lead to a major fire outbreak.

The inspection at Pankrono Market forms part of NADMO’s broader operation targeting 175 markets across Greater Kumasi. The goal is to reduce the region’s recurring fire outbreaks, especially during the dry season.

As part of the same inspection tour, the NADMO team also visited the Old Tafo Market, where the regional director rated the facility 65% compliant, saying more work was needed.

In just two shops, officers found a gas cylinder and a coal pot, all prohibited within the market. The team also observed dried grass on top of the roof, which could accelerate the spread of fire.

Although Old Tafo Market had no fire extinguishers, many shop owners expressed strong interest in purchasing them immediately.

A cosmetics dealer, Kofi Gyedu, said NADMO’s explanations were helpful and had convinced him of the need to act quickly.

“In a very short period, we will look for it and ensure that even if there is an outbreak, we could use it to contain the fire,” he said.

Kofi suggested that authorities could create a system where traders receive fire extinguishers and pay in installments, to make the equipment more affordable for those who cannot pay up front.

Another trader, Kwaku Ntow, who sells drinks, supported Kofi’s appeal for installment payments. He also recommended that NADMO should visit the markets regularly to remind traders of basic fire prevention practices and reinforce safety habits.

NADMO officials insist that every trader should have at least one extinguisher, given the highly congested and flammable nature of markets.

Regional Director Alhaji Mohammed urged market leaders, traders, and local authorities to take the warnings seriously.

“We cannot continue to ignore these risks. Everyone must play a part to keep our markets safe.”

He said NADMO will intensify education, enforce safety rules, and continue confiscating cooking equipment and unsafe electrical connections until markets comply with basic safety standards.