Editorial
Stop use of stones, heavy objects to cover leaking gas cylinders
Dear Editor,
I have witnessed a very dangerous practice by some food vendors who use stones and other heavy objects as weights on leaking gas cylinders.
This is very disturbing. Despite repeated warnings from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), many vendors continue to ignore the risks associated with such practices without considering the danger they pose to people nearby in the event of an explosion.
Many food vendors operate close to fuel filling stations, increasing the possibility of a major disaster if leaking gas ignites during heavy rainfall.
Ghana cannot afford another tragedy like the June 3 disaster, when torrential rains and a massive explosion at the GOIL fuel station near the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange claimed more than 150 lives.
It is unfortunate that some vendors still use unsafe and damaged gas cylinders instead of replacing them. Covering leaking cylinders with stones is not a solution and only exposes lives and property to danger.
On one occasion, I tried to educate a food vendor around my area who had used a stone to cover her gas cylinder on the danger of her action but ended up getting the insult of my life.
I would therefore like to appeal to all relevant stakeholders, especially the GNFS and other security agencies, to intensify public education and enforce safety regulations.
Authorities should ensure that vendors who engage in such dangerous practices stop immediately. Faulty gas cylinders should be seized, and users compelled to replace them with safer ones.
Taking these preventive measures will help protect lives and property and prevent the country from experiencing another avoidable tragedy similar to the June 3 disaster.
Timothy,
Abelenkpe
Dear Editor,
The recent flooding in various parts of Accra has once again exposed the city’s long-standing drainage and sanitation challenges.
Heavy rains over the past weeks have submerged homes, stranded motorists, destroyed properties and displaced several residents in communities such as Alajo, Mallam, Kaneshie, Dansoman and other flood-prone areas.
Reports also indicate that the spillage of the Weija Dam has worsened the situation for some downstream communities.
It is worrying that flooding has become an annual occurrence despite repeated promises by authorities to address the problem.
Many drains remain choked with refuse, waterways are obstructed by illegal structures, and poor planning continues to increase the vulnerability of residents.
The consequences are not only economic but also pose serious risks to human lives and public health.
While government agencies and NADMO have activated emergency response measures, prevention must receive equal attention.
Citizens must stop dumping waste into gutters, while city authorities must intensify desilting exercises, enforce building regulations and ensure that drainage systems are properly maintained.
Accra deserves a lasting solution to this recurring disaster. The time has come for all stakeholders government, local assemblies and residents to work together to make the capital safer and more resilient during the rainy season.
Samuel Tetteh,
Accra.
Dear Editor
I write with deep concern about the steady decline and near-collapse of our once-promising movie industry.
Not long ago, Ghana’s film sector was vibrant, producing movies that entertained, educated, and projected our culture across Africa and beyond.
Today, however, the industry appears to be struggling for survival.
Many talented actors, directors, and producers are leaving the scene due to lack of funding, poor distribution channels, and minimal government support.
Piracy continues to rob filmmakers of their rightful earnings, while investors show little confidence in the sector because returns are uncertain.
As a result, production quality has dropped significantly, and audiences are gradually turning to foreign content.
Another major challenge is the absence of modern equipment and well-equipped studios. In addition, the lack of structured training institutions for film production and acting has affected professionalism in the industry.
Social media content creators have now replaced traditional filmmakers, but without proper coordination, this cannot fully sustain a national film industry.
If urgent steps are not taken, Ghana risks losing an important cultural and economic asset. I therefore appeal to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, private investors, and stakeholders to collaborate in reviving the industry through funding support, strict anti-piracy measures, and the establishment of modern film production hubs.
Our stories matter, and our industry must not be allowed to die.
Jane Addai,
Accra
