By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S.
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued an urgent evacuation order for a partially collapsed two-storey building located at 27 Garrison Street in Freetown’s Central Business District. The structure, owned by expatriate Dr. Onodi William, exhibits severe cracks that pose significant risks to the safety of occupants and pedestrians alike.
Housing multiple businesses, including a stationery shop, a café, three stores, and twelve smaller shops, the building’s compromised condition prompted an immediate response from the NDMA. Maada Salia, NDMA’s Director of Risk Reduction and Preparedness, addressed the situation on-site, urging business owners and tenants to prioritize their safety. He cautioned that the building could collapse at any moment, rendering it unsafe for occupancy.
In a statement, NDMA’s Director of Communications, Mohamed L. Bah, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to proactive disaster management and called on the public to heed the evacuation orders to prevent potential injuries.
Sallieu Kargbo, a shop owner and caretaker of the building, expressed his gratitude for the NDMA’s swift action and assured that he and the other business owners would comply with the evacuation directives.
Following the assessment, the NDMA is working closely with the Freetown City Council (FCC) and other relevant authorities to determine the most appropriate next steps, which could involve either demolishing the building or securing it to mitigate further risks.
The NDMA also encourages property owners and landlords throughout Freetown to conduct regular inspections of their buildings to ensure compliance with safety standards. The agency remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to report any unsafe buildings for prompt intervention.
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