Flood Delayed Firefighters as Odawna Market Blaze Raged – GNFS
By Maurice Otoo
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has revealed that severe flooding significantly delayed efforts to contain the devastating fire that swept through the Odawna Market enclave, allowing the blaze to intensify before firefighters could intervene.
Speaking after the incident to Maurice Otoo of Kessben Digital, an Assistant Chief Fire Officer disclosed that the service received a distress alert at 8:08 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026.
However, upon arriving at the scene, firefighters found the area heavily flooded, making it impossible for fire tenders to access the burning market.
According to the Greater Accra Assistant Chief officer, Rashid Kwame Nasiwu, the floodwaters forced emergency responders to seek alternative means to rescue traders and residents trapped in the market and nearby homes. The rescue operation itself took approximately two hours before firefighters could fully commence firefighting efforts.
By the time crews gained access, the fire had already reached an advanced stage, making it extremely difficult to bring under control.
To combat the inferno, the GNFS deployed five fire tenders, with additional water tanker support provided by Greater Accra Mayor. The combined effort eventually brought the blaze under control after nearly 12 hours of intense firefighting.
The cause of the fire has not yet been established, with investigations still ongoing.
The Odawna Market fire has renewed concerns over the impact of flooding on emergency response, with many calling for improved drainage infrastructure to ensure fire crews can quickly access disaster scenes and prevent similar losses in the future.
