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Residents of Baifikrom and surrounding communities in the Central Region have been placed on high alert following a chlorine gas leak at the Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant.
The Central Regional Disaster Management Committee, in collaboration with the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Health Service, NADMO Central, and the Central Regional Coordinating Council (CRCC), confirmed the incident in a public notice issued on Tuesday.
According to the statement, emergency response teams were swiftly deployed to the scene and have since brought the situation under control. Technical teams remain on-site working to neutralise the leak and isolate affected canisters to prevent further risk.
Authorities have, however, urged residents in Baifikrom, Mankessim, Enyanmaim and nearby communities to strictly adhere to safety precautions.
Residents have been advised to move to higher ground or areas upwind if they detect a sharp, bleach-like odour associated with chlorine gas. Those unable to evacuate are encouraged to remain indoors, shut all windows and doors, and seal openings with damp cloths to minimise exposure.
The statement also cautioned against seeking shelter in low-lying areas such as valleys or trenches, as chlorine gas is heavier than air and tends to settle closer to the ground.
Health officials warned that exposure to chlorine gas may cause symptoms including stinging eyes, skin irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Affected persons are advised to flush their eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes, wash exposed skin thoroughly, and seek fresh air immediately.
Medical facilities, including the Mankessim Catholic Hospital and other nearby health centres, have been placed on alert to attend to potential cases. Residents experiencing persistent symptoms have been urged to seek immediate medical attention.
Authorities have also called on the public to remain calm and avoid the immediate vicinity of the treatment plant to allow emergency teams to operate without obstruction. NADMO officials and volunteer groups are on the ground to assist with coordinated movements and public safety.
The Regional Director of NADMO and Secretary to the Regional Disaster Management Committee, Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood Mensah, assured the public that updates will be provided as efforts continue to fully contain the situation.
Residents are encouraged to follow official directives as emergency teams work to ensure the safety of all affected communities.
Yaw Boagyan
