Madina Residents Demand Urgent Intervention Over High-Voltage Power Lines and Unsafe Building Proximity

Residents and traders at Rawlings Circle in Madina are sounding the alarm over what they describe as a "ticking time bomb" involving electrical infrastructure. High-voltage power lines and electricity poles are situated perilously close to homes and shops, with some structures reportedly built directly around or through existing utility poles. The situation has sparked widespread fear of imminent electrocution and catastrophic electrical fires, as local inhabitants call for immediate government intervention to prevent a potential disaster in the densely populated area.

Recent investigations at the site reveal a disturbing pattern of encroachment on utility easements. Local traders have highlighted the frequent occurrence of minor fire outbreaks linked to poor electrical installations and the dangerous proximity of metal containers to live wires. Samuel, a fibre-optic engineer operating in the vicinity, emphasized that safety protocols typically require at least a 50-meter clearance for high-tension lines to protect human life. While some residents are vocal about their fears, others remain hesitant to speak out publicly, wary that the questionable legality of their structures might lead to immediate demolition and loss of livelihood.

The safety crisis is not isolated to Madina, as similar hazards have been identified at Pokuase ACP, prompting broader concerns about urban planning in the region. In response, the Ga North Municipal Assembly has announced plans to crack down on unsafe constructions. Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Akwetey Agbo stated that the Assembly is coordinating with relevant state agencies to dismantle high-risk structures while simultaneously educating the public on the dangers of building within utility corridors. However, despite the gravity of the situation, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has yet to provide a formal response regarding their role in maintaining these corridors or managing the risks associated with existing poles.

This ongoing tension between rapid urban expansion and utility safety underscores a critical need for stricter enforcement of building regulations across the Greater Accra Region. As municipal authorities move toward enforcement and potential demolitions, the focus remains on whether these actions will be accompanied by long-term structural solutions to prevent future encroachments. For the residents of Rawlings Circle, the relocation of hazardous infrastructure and regular safety inspections are seen as essential steps to ensuring their survival in an increasingly crowded urban landscape.