The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in the Shama Municipality has launched an intensified safety campaign to prevent potential building disasters. The initiative targets structurally compromised buildings, aiming to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
A recent assessment by authorities in the Shama Municipality has identified five weak structures posing a threat to public safety. In a proactive move, three of these structures have already been demolished, described by officials as a crucial step in preventing potential disasters and saving lives.
A series of routine safety inspections across several communities in the Shama Municipality revealed six buildings with severe structural defects.
The urgency of the exercise has been heightened by events in Cape Coast, where six buildings collapsed within a week, fortunately, no casualties were recorded.
According to Micheal Nyan, the Municipal NADMO Coordinator, four identified buildings in Shama and Inchaban have been demolished as an immediate safety measure.
Two identified structures in the Shama Municipality are currently under review, with NADMO engaging their owners to ensure compliance with safety directives.
“We are working hand-in-hand with the building owners to facilitate a safe demolition process,” Mr. Nyan stated.
However, Mr. Nyan noted that the demolition exercise faces challenges, particularly in locating some property owners to serve them with demolition notices.
Additionally, Mr. Nyan pointed out that the close proximity of some buildings adds complexity to the demolition process.
“In Shama township, the buildings are often tightly packed, making demolition a delicate operation to avoid damaging neighboring structures. We’re working hard to ensure the process is safe,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Nyan remains optimistic about the operation’s progress, citing a largely positive response from the community.
