News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

ECG Schedules Widespread Maintenance Outages Across Six Regions Following Afienya Substation Fire
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ECG Schedules Widespread Maintenance Outages Across Six Regions Following Afienya Substation Fire

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of extensive power outages scheduled for June 9 and June 10, 2026, affecting six regions across the country. These interruptions, primarily driven by planned maintenance works and technical faults, come on the heels of a significant fire incident at an ECG substation near Afienya on June 8. The utility provider has indicated that these measures are necessary to improve service delivery and ensure the long-term reliability of the national power grid, though they will temporarily disrupt residential and commercial activities in the Eastern, Tema, Volta, Ashanti, and Accra regions. On Tuesday, June 9, the maintenance schedule impacted multiple districts with varying timeframes. In the Eastern Region, outages were slated for 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, while other regions including Tema, Ashanti, and the Volta Region faced similar planned disruptions. Beyond scheduled maintenance, ECG reported technical challenges causing fault-related outages in the Western and Ashanti West Regions. The company confirmed that technical teams were deployed to address these unforeseen faults in Accra West and Western regions to restore supply as quickly as possible following the rectification of these technical hitches. The maintenance schedule continues into Wednesday, June 10, with a specific focus on the Accra East Region. Residents and businesses in Doblo, Satellite, Sarpeiman, Medie, Kotoku, and Pobiman are expected to experience an eight-hour power cut from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Other affected areas include Blue Skies, Hebron, Ahodwo, Fotobi, Pakrom, Obudan, and Kwasikrom. ECG officials stated that this specific window is dedicated to critical system upgrades intended to bolster the efficiency and reliability of the local distribution network. Adding to the utility's challenges, a fire broke out at an ECG substation in the Afienya area of Greater Accra on June 8. Eyewitnesses reported thick smoke and visible flames emanating from the facility, though details regarding the extent of the damage and the cause of the fire remain unconfirmed. While there were no immediate reports of injuries or a direct statement on the fire's impact on regional supply, the incident highlights the ongoing pressure on the country's electrical infrastructure during this period of intensive maintenance. ECG has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to its customers and advised consumers in the affected areas to make necessary alternative arrangements. The company also urged the public to report any safety hazards identified during the maintenance period. As the utility provider works to restore power promptly following the completion of works, it maintains that these temporary disruptions are vital steps toward achieving a more robust and efficient power distribution system for all Ghanaians.

Greater Accra Cracks Down on Unsafe Structures After Fatal Building Collapses in Avenor and Adenta
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Greater Accra Cracks Down on Unsafe Structures After Fatal Building Collapses in Avenor and Adenta

The Greater Accra Region is facing a structural safety crisis following a series of building collapses that have claimed at least three lives and left several others injured. In response to these tragedies, Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has announced that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has identified 16 structurally compromised buildings across the metropolis for immediate demolition. This aggressive enforcement strategy aims to prevent further loss of life as authorities grapple with a surge in unauthorized and substandard construction projects that have bypassed municipal safety protocols. The crackdown comes as a direct consequence of recent incidents in Avenor, Adenta, and Madina, which have exposed deep-seated failures in building regulation enforcement. One of the most harrowing incidents occurred in the North Industrial Area of Avenor, where a multi-storey building collapsed, resulting in three confirmed deaths. Among the victims was 40-year-old Esther Donkor, a trader and mother of four who lived in the building. Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey confirmed that the deceased also included the owner of a Mothercare shop operating within the structure. Preliminary investigations into the Avenor collapse, a building constructed around 2020, revealed that the project lacked a valid building permit and utilized substandard construction materials. These findings are mirrored in Adenta, where a three-storey building collapsed on June 3, trapping five people. A Joint Technical Investigative Committee found that the developers had flagrantly ignored multiple stop-work orders and added an unauthorized floor, leading to a progressive structural failure. In Osu, city authorities have already begun the process of clearing dangerous structures to avert further disasters. The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), led by Municipal Chief Executive Nii Adjei Tawiah, supervised the controlled demolition of a dilapidated multi-storey building on June 8. The 50-year-old structure had already suffered partial collapses and was deemed a significant public safety hazard in the busy commercial district. The Joint Technical Investigative Committee, comprising engineering experts and statutory bodies, continues to analyze concrete samples from various sites to document regulatory breaches. Authorities are now calling for stricter adherence to the building code and are encouraging residents to report any buildings showing signs of distress or unauthorized construction to help prevent future tragedies.

Philippines Earthquake: 19 Dead and Over 200 Injured Following 7.8 Magnitude Tremor in Mindanao
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Philippines Earthquake: 19 Dead and Over 200 Injured Following 7.8 Magnitude Tremor in Mindanao

A powerful magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao in the southern Philippines on a Monday morning, leaving a trail of destruction that has claimed at least 19 lives and injured over 200 people. The seismic event occurred at 07:37 local time at a depth of approximately 35 kilometers, with its epicenter located southwest of Maasim town. The tremor was felt across the region, triggering immediate panic and leading to the mobilization of emergency services across several provinces. Initial reports suggest that the death toll may continue to rise as rescue teams reach more isolated areas. The port city of General Santos bore the brunt of the disaster, reporting significant infrastructure damage and multiple fatalities. Search and rescue teams have been deployed to work through the rubble of collapsed structures, which include a popular Jollibee restaurant and sections of a multi-story office building. Local authorities were forced to temporarily shut down the city’s airport for safety assessments, while widespread power outages hampered initial communication and rescue efforts. Disaster management officials, including chief Agripino Dacera, noted that ground assessments are ongoing to verify the full extent of the casualties and structural loss. The timing of the quake added a layer of complexity to the emergency, as it coincided with the first day of the new school year. Thousands of students were gathered for morning activities when the ground began to shake, resulting in stampedes and injuries as children fled classrooms in panic. Beyond the initial shock, the region has been rocked by more than 130 aftershocks, some reaching a magnitude of 6.7. Tsunami warnings were also issued shortly after the quake, prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents from coastal communities, though a major tsunami threat did not ultimately materialize. In response to the crisis, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the immediate suspension of classes in all affected areas and directed national agencies to provide comprehensive support for recovery operations. This latest disaster underscores the Philippines' constant vulnerability to seismic activity, situated as it is along the Pacific "Ring of Fire." As assessments continue and rescue teams reach remote villages, the government is focusing on providing medical aid and restoring essential services to the displaced population, highlighting the urgent need for reinforced infrastructure in one of the world's most earthquake-prone regions.

Ghana National Fire Service Investigates After Honda Civic Gutted by Fire at Kwamoso-Duasin
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Ghana National Fire Service Investigates After Honda Civic Gutted by Fire at Kwamoso-Duasin

A Honda Civic saloon car was completely gutted by fire in the late hours of Sunday, June 4, at Kwamoso-Duasin in the Eastern Region. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), which responded to the emergency call, confirmed that the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames upon their arrival, leading to significant property loss. Despite the intensity of the blaze and the extensive damage to the vehicle, fire officials confirmed that no injuries or loss of life were recorded during the incident, providing a relief to the owner and the local community. The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 10:40 PM, prompting an immediate dispatch of firefighters to the scene. Upon arrival, the crew worked efficiently to combat the inferno and prevent it from spreading to nearby vegetation or structures. Although the firefighters managed to extinguish the fire relatively quickly, the vehicle had already sustained irreparable damage, leaving it a charred shell. The prompt intervention was nonetheless vital in ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment during the night-time emergency, as officials sought to contain the hazard before it could escalate. Following the incident, the Ghana National Fire Service has initiated a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze. While the specific trigger for this fire remains under review, the GNFS has taken the opportunity to remind the public and vehicle owners of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. Fire safety experts emphasized that properly servicing electrical systems and checking for potential fuel leaks are critical steps in preventing spontaneous vehicle fires. These precautions are essential for motorists to ensure their safety and the longevity of their vehicles on Ghanaian roads.

NADMO Attributes Rising Disasters in Ada East to Human Activity and Planning Violations
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NADMO Attributes Rising Disasters in Ada East to Human Activity and Planning Violations

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has identified human negligence and the disregard for environmental regulations as the primary drivers behind the increasing frequency of disasters in the Ada East District. According to District Director Mr. Moses Jumpah, many of the emergencies reported in the area, particularly devastating floods and domestic fire outbreaks, are largely preventable if residents adhere to established safety protocols. This warning comes as the district grapples with a rise in incidents that threaten both lives and property, highlighting a growing concern over community safety and urban planning resilience. Mr. Jumpah specifically pointed to the encroachment of wetlands and the flagrant disregard for physical planning regulations as major factors exacerbating flood risks. As developers continue to build in unauthorized areas, natural water drainage paths are being blocked by structures, significantly intensifying the district's vulnerability to heavy rainfall. In addition to these environmental concerns, the NADMO official highlighted an uptick in domestic fires. He attributed these occurrences to unsafe practices within homes, including improper handling of electrical appliances and flammable materials, which often lead to avoidable tragedies that strain the district's emergency response resources. To mitigate these risks, NADMO is calling for heightened community involvement and a renewed commitment to environmental compliance across the Ada East District. Mr. Jumpah emphasized that effective disaster management is a shared responsibility, urging residents to consult with the district assembly and planning authorities before embarking on construction projects. Moving forward, the organization intends to intensify public education campaigns and advocate for stricter enforcement of safety guidelines. The ultimate goal is to foster a culture of prevention, ensuring that Ada East becomes more resilient to both man-made and natural hazards through proactive compliance and community awareness.

Funeral Arrangements Announced for Jones Korku Abdallah and Lady Theresa Henrietta Edusei
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Funeral Arrangements Announced for Jones Korku Abdallah and Lady Theresa Henrietta Edusei

The families and traditional authorities of the late Jones Korku Abdallah and Lady Theresa Henrietta Edusei have officially announced the funeral arrangements for the two departed individuals, scheduled for June 2026. These announcements, representing communities in both the Keta and Asante Asokore regions, mark a period of communal mourning as friends, sympathizers, and well-wishers are invited to pay their final respects. The scheduled services highlight the deep cultural and religious traditions associated with honoring the deceased in Ghana, bringing together diverse communities to celebrate the lives and legacies of these two figures. For the late Jones Korku Abdallah, affectionately known as Borbor, the final rites are set to begin on June 26, 2026, with a family gathering. Borbor, who passed away at the age of 64, will be honored with a burial service on June 27 at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. Following the service, the interment will take place at the Keta Vui Government Cemetery. The transition will be concluded with a thanksgiving service on June 28 at the Better Christian Life Ministries. Torgbui Agbesi Awusu II and the bereaved family have requested that attendees wear black and red as a sign of mourning and respect for the departed. In a separate announcement, the chiefs and elders of the Asante Asokore Traditional Area have detailed the home-going transition for Lady Theresa Henrietta Edusei, known to many as Aunty Theresa. Her final journey will commence on June 20, 2026, with a lying-in-repose and a requiem mass at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Funeral rites will be performed on the same day to honor her contributions to the traditional area. A thanksgiving mass will subsequently be held on June 21 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, providing an opportunity for the community to offer prayers and gratitude for her life. These upcoming ceremonies underscore the significant role of family and traditional leadership in Ghanaian society. By announcing these rites, the families of both Mr. Abdallah and Lady Edusei ensure that all who were touched by their lives have the opportunity to participate in the final farewells. As the respective communities prepare for these solemn events, the invitations extended to all sympathizers reflect a shared sense of loss and the enduring importance of communal support during times of bereavement.

Residents Force Alleged Thief to Re-enact Narrow Escape Through Metal Fence in Viral Video
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Residents Force Alleged Thief to Re-enact Narrow Escape Through Metal Fence in Viral Video

A viral video circulating on social media has captured the moment residents in a local neighborhood apprehended a young man accused of an attempted break-in. The footage, which surfaced on June 6, 2026, depicts the suspect being confronted by a group of citizens who caught him allegedly trying to infiltrate a building. Rather than immediately handing him over to the police, the residents compelled the suspect to demonstrate exactly how he managed to penetrate the property through an incredibly narrow gap in a metal security fence. The video shows the suspect struggling to squeeze his body through the tight vertical bars of the fence, a feat that bystanders watched with a mixture of disbelief and stern reproach. As the man maneuvered through the small opening, onlookers recorded the incident on their mobile devices, providing a real-time account of the unconventional apprehension. Witnesses on the scene were heard making pointed remarks about the risks of criminal activity, with one notable comment being, "Thieves are suffering," reflecting a growing sentiment of frustration regarding local crime and the measures communities are willing to take to protect their property. This incident highlights a recurring trend of "citizen arrests" and community-led security interventions in Ghana. While the video does not show physical violence, it underscores the psychological and public shaming methods often employed by residents to deter future criminal behavior. The suspect's ability to fit through such a restrictive space raised concerns among the witnesses about the effectiveness of standard security bars, prompting discussions among social media users about the need for more robust residential security measures. While the specific location of the incident remains unconfirmed, the video has sparked a wider conversation about the role of community vigilance and the legal boundaries of detaining suspects. While many online commentators praised the residents for their alertness, others have cautioned against the potential dangers of mob justice, emphasizing the importance of involving law enforcement promptly. As of now, it is unclear if the suspect was subsequently handed over to the Ghana Police Service or if formal charges have been filed following the public confrontation.

One Feared Dead and Vehicle Swept Away Following Severe Flooding in Klagon
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One Feared Dead and Vehicle Swept Away Following Severe Flooding in Klagon

Heavy rainfall in the Klagon area of Accra has led to a tragic incident where one person is feared dead after being swept away by rampaging floodwaters. The event, which occurred on June 7, saw the River Klagon overflow its banks, inundating surrounding communities and causing widespread disruption to daily life and transportation. The sudden surge in water levels transformed local roads into dangerous streams, trapping residents and leaving many stranded as the deluge submerged key access points throughout the suburb. The flooding created particularly hazardous conditions for motorists and residents attempting to navigate the area during the downpour. A critical bridge in the community was overwhelmed by fast-moving water, making it nearly impossible for vehicles to cross safely. It was during these treacherous conditions that a vehicle was reportedly caught in the powerful current and swept away, leading to the reported casualty. The intensity of the rainfall and the speed at which the river rose caught many off-guard, highlighting the severe vulnerability of the local infrastructure to extreme weather events. In immediate response to the crisis, officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) were dispatched to the scene to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate emergency relief efforts. Teddy Addi Safori, NADMO’s Deputy Director-General of Operations, confirmed that the organization is actively monitoring the situation and has moved into a state of high preparedness to handle the fallout from the flooding. The primary focus of the emergency teams remains the search for the missing individual and ensuring that residents in high-risk zones are moved to safety while the full scale of the destruction is evaluated. This incident underscores the recurring challenges Accra faces during the rainy season, specifically regarding the capacity of drainage systems and the structural safety of bridges in flood-prone zones. As NADMO continues its post-disaster assessment, residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution when navigating flooded roads and to avoid crossing bridges when water levels are visibly high. The community now awaits further updates as rescue and recovery operations proceed, while officials look toward more robust long-term urban planning solutions to prevent such devastating occurrences in the future.

ECG Announces Region-Wide Power Outages Due to Maintenance and Substation Fault
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ECG Announces Region-Wide Power Outages Due to Maintenance and Substation Fault

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of scheduled power outages across multiple regions on June 8, 2026, to facilitate critical maintenance work. These planned interruptions are set to affect residents and businesses in the Ashanti, Tema, Accra East, and Accra West regions. In addition to the scheduled works, the utility provider is simultaneously grappling with an unplanned technical failure at the Kwashieman Primary Substation, which has further complicated the power situation in parts of the national capital. The dual challenge of maintenance and repairs is expected to impact several high-profile institutions and densely populated residential areas throughout the day.The maintenance schedule varies by region, with outages spanning several hours to allow engineers to work safely on the distribution network. In the Ashanti Region, communities such as Old Krapa and Aboaso are experiencing outages from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. In Accra East, including the vicinity of the ECG Headquarters, Police City, and Ashiye Fulani, power is restricted between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Meanwhile, the Tema region, covering landmarks such as the Tema International School and the EU China Mall along with residential areas like New Tulaku and White Estates, is seeing interruptions from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In Accra West, neighborhoods like Tabora and Alhaji Trotro Station are scheduled for an eight-hour outage starting at 9:00 a.m.While maintenance is the primary cause for most disruptions, ECG engineers are also attending to an emergency situation at the Kwashieman Primary Substation. A technical fault at this facility has led to an unplanned blackout affecting Nyamekye, Darkuman, and surrounding vicinities. This unforeseen incident highlights the ongoing infrastructure challenges facing the utility provider. ECG has issued a formal apology to its customers for the resulting inconveniences and has advised the public to make necessary alternative arrangements for their power needs during the affected periods. The company assured the public that its technical teams are working diligently to restore supply as soon as the maintenance tasks are completed and the substation fault is rectified. Customers are encouraged to stay informed via ECG’s official communication channels for real-time updates on restoration progress.

NADMO Blames Unauthorized Construction and Poor Sanitation for Severe Flooding in Tema West Municipality
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NADMO Blames Unauthorized Construction and Poor Sanitation for Severe Flooding in Tema West Municipality

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has identified unauthorized construction and poor waste management as the primary drivers of recent severe flooding within the Tema West Municipality. According to Mr. Kwaku Adjei Baah of NADMO, the recurring inundation of residential areas is not merely a result of seasonal weather patterns but is significantly exacerbated by human activities that obstruct natural water drainage systems. The organization has warned that unless these underlying issues are addressed, the risk to lives and property will continue to escalate during the current rainy season. A critical factor highlighted by NADMO is the proliferation of illegal structures across the municipality. Mr. Baah revealed that approximately 99% of the buildings currently obstructing watercourses in the area lack the necessary official permits. This trend is particularly evident in the Sakumono Ramsar Site, a protected wetland where ongoing illegal developments have severely compromised the land’s natural ability to absorb excess rainwater. Areas such as Church Village have been cited as prime examples of ineffective urban planning, where residential expansion has occurred in zones never intended for housing, leading to predictable and devastating consequences for inhabitants. The impact of this poor land use is widespread, with Communities 16 through 20, Lashibi, and Sakumono Village among the most severely affected locations. Beyond illegal construction, improper sanitation practices have significantly worsened the situation. Litter and solid waste frequently clog the municipality's drainage networks, preventing the free flow of water and forcing it into homes and streets. NADMO officials emphasized that the combination of blocked drains and buildings positioned directly in the path of runoff creates a bottleneck effect that ensures even moderate rainfall results in significant flooding. Looking ahead, NADMO has issued an urgent advisory for residents living in high-risk zones and flood-prone areas to relocate to safer ground immediately. With meteorological forecasts predicting heavier rainfall as the season progresses, the organization stressed that the current infrastructure is ill-equipped to handle higher volumes of water. While long-term solutions involving the enforcement of building codes and improved waste management systems are necessary, the immediate priority remains the safety of residents who are encouraged to heed warnings to avoid further tragedy.

Ghana News Agency Honoured with Institutional Award at GJA World Press Freedom Day Ceremony
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Ghana News Agency Honoured with Institutional Award at GJA World Press Freedom Day Ceremony

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) has been officially recognized for its enduring contributions to the media landscape, receiving a prestigious Institutional Award at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day Honours Night. Held in Accra, the ceremony served as a platform to celebrate the vital role of media organizations and practitioners in safeguarding democratic values and fostering national development. The award highlights GNA's longstanding commitment to providing reliable news and maintaining its position as a cornerstone of Ghana's media ecosystem. The award was accepted by the General Manager of the GNA, Mr. Albert Kofi Owusu, who emphasized that the honor is a reflection of the agency’s unwavering dedication to public service journalism. Mr. Owusu noted that the GNA serves as a critical bridge between the government and the citizenry, ensuring that accurate information reaches every corner of the country. By documenting the nation's progress and challenges, the agency has played a pivotal role in national discourse, helping to shape the democratic identity of Ghana since its inception. Established on March 5, 1957, the Ghana News Agency was created to tell the Ghanaian and African story with a focus on objectivity and national unity. As the agency approaches its 70th anniversary milestone, it continues to evolve to meet the demands of the digital era while upholding its core values. The GJA recognition acknowledges this evolution and the agency’s success in maintaining its relevance in an increasingly fragmented media environment, where institutional integrity remains paramount for public trust. The World Press Freedom Day Honours Night also recognized various other individuals and institutions committed to the principles of free and fair journalism. This collective celebration underscores the ongoing efforts required to protect press freedom and support media development in Ghana. For the GNA, this award serves not only as a mark of past achievements but also as a catalyst for future growth as it continues to support democratic governance and provide the public with the information necessary for informed citizenship.

Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and GNFS to Demolish Dilapidated Osu Building Over Safety Concerns
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Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and GNFS to Demolish Dilapidated Osu Building Over Safety Concerns

Residents and tenants of a deteriorating building on Abebrese Street in Osu are vacating the premises following a demolition order issued by the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). The multi-agency operation, supported by the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and the Ghana Police Service, was initiated after the GNFS officially declared the structure unsafe for habitation. Fearing an imminent collapse, authorities have moved to enforce building regulations and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. The eviction process has triggered significant distress among the building's occupants, some of whom have resided there for over 30 years. While some tenants alleged that the enforcement action was conducted without sufficient prior notice, causing them difficulties in securing new accommodation, authorities have presented a different narrative. Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong confirmed that formal eviction notices had been delivered previously, but noted that several occupants had delayed their exit until the final demolition order was enforced. This discrepancy has added a layer of tension to the evacuation, as long-term residents scramble to pack their belongings. Property owners involved in the situation have acknowledged the building's poor condition, with one owner stating they had been actively seeking a buyer to redevelop the site. However, the difficulty in finding a purchaser has left the structure in a state of limbo until this forced intervention. As the demolition proceeds, displaced residents are reportedly seeking temporary shelter with relatives or searching for affordable housing in an increasingly competitive Osu market. The owners have expressed their intent to comply with the assembly’s safety directives despite the logistical challenges. This enforcement action underscores the broader effort by municipal authorities in Accra to address the risks posed by aging and poorly maintained structures. The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly and the GNFS have urged the general public to heed evacuation notices and prioritize safety over property retention to avoid potential disasters. Moving forward, the assembly plans to continue its rigorous monitoring of buildings within the municipality to ensure that all structures meet the required safety and engineering standards.