88 dilapidated buildings marked for demolition in Sekondi-Takoradi
Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has conducted a final assessment of 88 dilapidated and structurally weak buildings identified for possible demolition or renovation within the metropolis.
The exercise covered both residential and commercial properties deemed unsafe and posing significant risks to occupants and people in surrounding areas.
The inspection was undertaken in collaboration with officials from the Metro Works Department, the Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency (Ghana)), and the Ghana National Fire Service (Ghana National Fire Service), among other stakeholders.
Sekondi-Takoradi Metro NADMO Director, Alhaji Kamal Abubakar, explained that the exercise revealed serious structural defects in several of the buildings, including wide cracks and advanced deterioration, making them unsafe for human habitation.
“We conducted an exercise late last year where we identified some 88 buildings within the metropolis that we earmarked as dangerous and dilapidated, and needed some works to be done on them,” he said.
He added that the latest assessment was aimed at determining which structures required renovation and which should be completely demolished in the interest of public safety.
“We have brought the experts to carry out these assessment tests on the buildings and after this, we will fully implement their recommendations as to whether a structure must be totally demolished or renovated for human habitation,” he stated.
Alhaji Abubakar further noted that notices had already been served to affected property owners in line with enforcement procedures, although some were resisting the process.
He, however, urged all affected persons and the general public to cooperate with the authorities to ensure the smooth implementation of measures aimed at preventing potential hazards posed by the unsafe structures.