The Acting Head of the Department of Physics at the University of Ghana and Head of the Afri-SET Project, Dr. Allison Hughes, has raised concerns over the severe health risks posed by air pollution from fish smoking in James Town.
Fishmongers in the densely populated community continue to use outdated methods to smoke fish, generating excessive smoke that affects both residents and traders.
Speaking to Adom News, Dr. Hughes explained that the use of biomass for fish smoking significantly pollutes the air, with its emissions impacting the entire area.
He emphasized that the harmful effects extend beyond the fishmongers, posing serious risks to the most vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.
“These groups are more susceptible due to weaker immune systems and underdeveloped lungs, making them prone to respiratory issues and other health complications,” he noted.
Dr. Hughes called for urgent community awareness and intervention to mitigate the harmful effects of smoke exposure.
He advocated for safer fish-smoking techniques and policies that protect both fishmongers and residents from long-term health risks.
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