NADMO Debriefs The Media On Melcom Disaster

Mohammed Saani Ibrahim-

The National Disaster Management Organization [NADMO] in collaboration with its stakeholders has briefed the media on the aftermath of the Melcom Supermarket disaster.
The disaster that occurred in Achimota, a suburb of Accra in the early morning of November this year is known to have claimed 14 lives while six are currently being treated at both the Korle-bu Teaching Hospital and the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.
According to Mr. Kofi Portuphy the NADMO Coordinator, commended the effort og Ghanaians in general for rising to the occasion to rescue those trapped in the disaster but he added that more need to be done in such situations.
The media which played an important role in the event were however advised to be circumspect and accurate with their reportage when next if such incident occurred. Some press houses according to him quoted unreliable figures as which help in creating panics in the public.
He indicated that Ghana as a nation has exhibited its readiness to tackle any disaster in future when it occurs. The effective professionalism shown by people from all walks of life explains our unity as a people one destiny.
On his part, the Director for Public Affiars of the Ghana Armed Forces, Col Atintandi pointed out some challenges confronted them during the exercise. He mentioned the challenges of control and command as the people without any knowledge of disaster rescuing were found to be in the lead.
He also commended the people of Ghana for their donation and effective response to the call to help rescue those trapped in the disaster as well as the Israeli Government for their assistance.
NADMO is also with the support of the United States Army setting up a National Operation Center at their Head Office to be furnished with all available gadgets to boost disaster management in the country. The building is expected to be completed in the next two Months.