Devtraco Plus Limited has clarified that the recent incident at its Roman Ridge construction site was caused by a temporary formwork failure and did not compromise the building’s permanent structural integrity.
In a statement issued on October 28, 2025, the company explained that a “localised section of temporary formwork supporting freshly poured concrete gave way, failing approximately 50 square meters of wet concrete” during the casting of the first-floor podium slab.
The real estate developer assured the public that there was no structural collapse, emphasising that the incident was limited to the temporary props used to support the slab.
“There has been no structural failure. The permanent structural integrity of the building remains intact,” Devtraco stated.
The company added that all work on the project was being executed in line with approved engineering designs and under the supervision of certified consultants.
Injuries and emergency response
Following the incident, Devtraco’s project management and safety teams reportedly acted swiftly under established emergency protocols.
Fourteen workers sustained minor to moderate injuries and were immediately transported to the 37 Military Hospital and Ridge Hospital for treatment.
Twelve of the injured workers have since been treated and are expected to be discharged, while two others remain under observation but are in stable condition.
The affected section of the site has been cordoned off as a joint investigation, involving project consultants, safety officers, and contractors, continues to determine the exact cause and ensure reinforced preventive measures before work resumes.
“Our foremost priority remains the safety and well-being of all personnel on site,” the statement noted.
“We remain fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and professional integrity throughout the construction process.”
Devtraco Plus, one of Ghana’s leading real estate developers with over 1,800 properties nationwide, reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a world-class project that meets all safety and engineering standards.
Fire service confirms rescue efforts
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Public Relations Office at its National Headquarters confirmed the incident, describing it as a “structural collapse” at the Roman Ridge Engineering Center, located between a 10-storey apartment building and the Ghana Institute of Engineering.
The building, reportedly under construction by Fabrico Builders, a subsidiary of Devtraco Limited, experienced the incident around noon on Tuesday, October 28.
According to the GNFS, a distress call was received at 12:18 p.m., and a rescue team led by ADO I Minnoh arrived at the scene by 12:29 p.m. to assist with recovery operations.
All 14 affected workers, all male, had already been rescued and transported to the hospital by the time the GNFS team arrived. No fatalities were recorded.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that the victims sustained varying degrees of injuries, but a prompt emergency response helped avert a tragedy.
The GNFS said investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the formwork failure.
The site manager has been advised to halt construction until safety assessments and compliance checks are completed.
Commitment to safety
The company reiterated its assurance that safety remains central to all its operations.
“We are reinforcing our safety systems and ensuring all teams adhere to best engineering practices before resumption of works,” Devtraco stated.
The incident, while unfortunate, underscores the growing call within Ghana’s construction industry for stricter safety compliance and routine inspection of temporary structures used during major building projects.
