Ghana: Explosion at gas station in Accra kills 73

An explosion at a gasoline station in Ghana’s capital Accra killed about 73 people, many of whom had sought shelter there from torrential rain, on Wednesday night, the fire department said.

The blast was caused by a fire that erupted at a nearby truck terminal then spread to the gasoline station and other buildings, fire department spokesman Billy Anaglate said.

It ripped through the filling station, operated by Ghana Oil Company (GOIL) shattering windows and walls and reducing the station to rubble.

“It was an explosive fire and so the people sheltering at the filling station did not have an opportunity to escape,” Anaglate said.

Firefighters battled the blaze into the early hours while police joined emergency crews helping rescue people trapped in the wreckage, Accra Mayor Oko Vanderpuije said.

Team of rescuers wearing face masks and gloves went in to the filling station with stretchers to remove the remaining bodies, all of which were unrecognizable.

Initial signs suggested the fire started by accident, Anaglate said.

Floods from several hours of heavy downpour submerged buildings and vehicles across Accra on Wednesday.

The country’s President John Mahama, who visited the area, said he was heartbroken by the heavy loss of lives and damage.

Ghana’s meteorological service there could be more rains on Thursday.

Source: Reuters