Buduburam Explosion: Affected Property Owners Frustrated Over Delayed Compensation
Residents and property owners affected by the devastating explosion in Buduburam earlier this year have expressed growing frustration over the delays in receiving compensation. The explosion, which occurred in July, caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and other properties in the densely populated area, leaving many struggling to rebuild their lives.
Despite promises from government agencies and local authorities to expedite the compensation process, affected individuals claim that little progress has been made. Many have been left to shoulder the financial burden of repairs, with no clear timeline for when relief will arrive.
One affected resident, Evelyn Mensah, recounted the emotional and financial toll the disaster has had on her family. “We lost everything in the explosion. I have spent months borrowing money to rebuild, yet the authorities keep telling us to wait. How much longer can we endure this?” she lamented.
Similarly, business owner Kofi Asiedu, whose shop was destroyed in the explosion, noted that the delays are threatening the livelihoods of many. “I had to shut down my business because I couldn’t afford to replace my stock. They told us help was coming, but it feels like we’ve been abandoned,” he said.
Local authorities, however, have assured residents that steps are being taken to ensure fair and transparent distribution of compensation. According to the District Chief Executive, a thorough assessment of the damage is ongoing to determine the appropriate amounts for each claimant. “We understand the frustration of those affected, but we must ensure the process is done correctly. We are finalizing the list of beneficiaries and will begin disbursing funds soon,” the DCE stated.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations have called for increased transparency in the compensation process. “There is a need for clear communication with the victims. Delays only worsen their plight and erode trust in the system,” said Michael Owusu, a policy analyst with the Ghana Center for Policy Advocacy.
As the affected individuals continue to wait, some have threatened to stage protests to draw attention to their plight. “If they won’t listen to us, we will make sure they see us,” said an irate resident during a community meeting last week.
The explosion, reportedly caused by a gas leak at a nearby station, killed three people and injured several others. Investigations into the incident have since concluded, with the owners of the facility fined and licenses revoked.
As pressure mounts, many are hopeful that the authorities will honor their commitment and provide the much-needed relief to the victims. Until then, the affected community remains in limbo, awaiting the fulfillment of promises made months ago.
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