A fire outbreak at Avenor in Accra’s North Industrial Area has caused extensive destruction, with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully bringing the blaze under control.

The fire started Thursday morning in an area commonly known as Kofikrom, near the Avenor Junction and behind the railway line, where several wooden kiosks and businesses are located.

According to the Ayawaso Central Municipal Fire Station Public Relations Officer, ADO1 Nana Tuffuor, the Circle Fire Station received the distress call at 7:18 a.m.

Firefighters responded immediately, arriving at the scene with their appliances at approximately 7:20 a.m.

Wooden kiosks obstruct firefighting efforts

Firefighters encountered significant challenges in their efforts to reach the base of the fire.

ADO1 Nana Tuffuor said the presence of numerous wooden kiosks in the area created access difficulties and delayed efforts to get directly to the source of the blaze.

The fire generated thick columns of black smoke and heavy flames, which were visible from the area as the incident intensified.

By 11:00 a.m., firefighters had succeeded in bringing the fire under control.

As of 11:20 a.m., four fire engines remained at the scene, while additional engines and fire tenders were reportedly on their way to support the operation.

Police and military assist emergency response

The intensity of the fire prompted an expanded emergency response, with additional security personnel deployed to the area.

Police officers were present to control the situation and prevent members of the public from getting too close to the affected area.

Personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces also arrived to assist with the emergency response.

Earlier, an eyewitness identified the area where the fire started as Kofikrom, a location known for its wooden kiosks and the activities of goat and cattle traders.

The heavy smoke and flames caused concern among businesses and residents in the surrounding area.

Cause and extent of damage

The exact cause of the fire has not yet been established.

However, the incident has resulted in extensive destruction in the affected area, particularly among the wooden structures located around Kofikrom.

Authorities are expected to provide further details on the extent of the damage as assessment of the affected area continues.

More updates will follow as the Ghana National Fire Service and other emergency authorities provide additional information.