KMA and NADMO Order Traders to Evacuate Blue Light Arena After Devastating Fire

In response to the devastating fire that struck the Blue Light Arena in Kumasi last Friday, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) have directed traders operating in the area to evacuate to make way for the construction of a new lorry pathway.

The fire, which broke out at the commercial hub near Hello FM, caused widespread damage, destroying shops in two-storey buildings.

Despite the quick response from firefighters, the congested layout of the area made it challenging for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to effectively tackle the blaze, leading to further destruction.

The decision to evacuate traders is part of a broader effort to prevent similar incidents in the future and to improve emergency access in the area.

Ofori Agyeman Boadi, also known as “King Zuba,” who spoke on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, explained that the evacuation is crucial to ensuring the safety of both the traders and the surrounding community.

To make way for the construction of a new, more accessible lorry pathway, all traders in the vicinity have been given a two-day ultimatum.

They must vacate their premises by Sunday, March 23, to avoid delays in the demolition process, which will begin on Monday, March 24.

The authorities are urging all affected individuals to cooperate fully with the directive to ensure a smooth and timely evacuation.

The initiative, while disruptive for the traders, is seen as a necessary step to avoid future fire outbreaks, improve traffic flow, and enhance emergency response efforts in the area.

With the evacuation underway, authorities are hopeful that these changes will not only prevent further incidents but also make the Blue Light Arena and surrounding areas safer for everyone.

As the evacuation deadline approaches, traders are scrambling to find new spaces for their businesses, while local authorities are coordinating with the affected individuals to ensure a seamless transition.

The coming days will be critical in determining the future of the Blue Light Arena as construction plans unfold.