Adum fire not caused by power outage — ECG Ashanti

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ashanti, has denied claims linking the recent Adum fire to power outages.

It said the market operates on a dedicated distribution line, Town Hall Feeder, with an alternative supply from Power House 2 and both, had no outages before the fire.

The Ashanti West Regional General Manager of the ECG, George Amoah, emphasised that the company prioritises reliable power in the area, a key economic revenue hub of the regional capital, stressing that a recent power outage in parts of Kumasi did not affect the market and had no connection to the fire.

Threat

Mr Amoah stated that despite the efforts of ECG to ensure a stable power supply, criminal actions like vandalising and stealing transformers and cables have caused power disruptions in the past. However, the ECG Ashanti West Regional General Manager stressed that power was stable before the fire and ECG only cut supply after the outbreak to assist firefighting efforts.

“The fire at Adum was not caused by power outage. Indeed, there was no power outage. However, as a safety precaution, the lights had to be put off to allow the firefighting exercise,” he said.

Mr Amoah further expressed concern that apart from the vandalism and theft of ECG installations, old wiring, illegal power connections and substandard electrical setups in the market pose safety risks.

“As a service provider and knowing the risks, we have always advised traders to engage certified electricians per LI 2008 regulations to ensure the right materials are used and the necessary safety measures are adhered to,” he stated.