In the wake of a devastating explosion in the coastal town of Ngyiresia, the Director of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) for Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), James Obeng Jnr, has shed light on ongoing efforts to enhance safety in the transportation of premix fuel in Ghana.
On the tragic day, May 18, a barrel of premix fuel exploded while being transported by a group of fishermen, claiming the lives of Joseph Adom, a 15-year-old boy, and a 7-year-old child.
Fourteen others were injured in the incident, which occurred when a barrel toppled over, spilled its contents, and ignited upon coming into contact with a naked flame, causing a catastrophic explosion.
The injured were quickly transported to Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, where the two young victims succumbed to death.
James Obeng Jnr highlighted that for the past three years, significant arrangements and dialogues have been ongoing to ensure the safe transportation of premix fuel.
He emphasized the involvement of various stakeholders, including the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, and Marine Police, in these discussions.
“We have made numerous arrangements with stakeholders to discuss how to handle the transportation issue. It’s quite unfortunate that this incident happened while we are still looking at ways to handle the issue,” Obeng Jnr told Nana Yaa Brefo, host of Yen Nsempa on Onua FM, Co-hosted by Isaac Ekow JB, on May 20.
He elaborated that strategic plans aimed at controlling the dispensing of premix fuel were in the pipeline.
This plan includes the installation of pipelines from points of sale to designated locations where end users can access the fuel safely.
The goal he says is to prevent unnecessary access to premix fuel, thereby reducing the risk of such accidents.
“If they need it, there will be vantage points for them to get it,” he added.
Obeng Jnr also mentioned the possibility of using tankers for transportation but stressed the need for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders, particularly the Ghana National Fire Service, to ensure the safe transfer of fuel from one tanker to another.
This tragic event he says underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures in the transportation and handling of premix fuel to prevent future occurrences.
As the community of Ngyiresia mourns the loss of two young lives, efforts to improve safety protocols continue to be a priority for NADMO and its partners, he mentioned.
By Lois Dogbe
