Gas, kerosene, cement scarce in Western Region

Takoradi, Dec. 9,-GNA- An acute shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Kerosene and Cement has hit the Western Region.

Investigations conducted by the Ghana News Agency at the fuel and GAS filling plants within the Shama Ahanta East Metropolis and the other two in the Ahanta West District revealed that the product was scarce. At most of the filling stations, several empty cylinders have been deposited in anticipation of supply while signposts of "NO GAS" have been boldly displayed.

Many people are seen during the day carrying cylinders and gallons moving from one filling station to another either in search of GAS or kerosene.

There is the fear that if GAS were not available before the Christmas holidays, huge quantities if woodlots would be burnt for charcoal to meet the needs of the people. Mr. Wilson Kwesi Arthur, Manager of Kwesi Arthur and Sons Construction Company limited said the acute shortage of cement in the metropolis, was a source of worry to contactors. He said apart from their contracts being delayed, they are compelled to buy at exorbitant prices.

He said requisition made over a month ago for 5,000 bags of cement from Ghana Cement Works (GHACEM) had not been honoured thereby compelling them to buy it at exorbitant prizes. Mr. Arthur therefore appealed to the management of Ghacem to release the product to enable them to deliver their projects on schedule.