By: T-mac G. Nyaquoi
GANTA CITY, NIMBA COUNTY – A routine well-cleaning task turned fatal in the Gbloryee community of Ganta City this week, leaving one man dead and another fighting for his life after they were overcome by suspected toxic fumes.
The Incident
The tragedy unfolded when a local resident entered a community well to perform maintenance and cleaning. According to eyewitness accounts, the man was quickly overwhelmed by a pungent, gas-like odor emanating from the water.
In a desperate attempt to assist, a second man heard the victim’s cries for help and descended into the well. However, he too was incapacitated by the powerful fumes before he could complete the rescue.
Emergency Response
Distraught community members eventually managed to retrieve both men, who were found unconscious at the bottom of the shaft. They were rushed to the Ganta Methodist Hospital for emergency treatment. While one individual has been confirmed dead, the condition of the second man remains critical.
Concerns of Petroleum Contamination
The incident has sparked outrage and fear among Gbloryee residents. Many believe the “gas odor” reported by witnesses is linked to a recent explosion of a nearby petroleum storage tank.
“We are terrified,” said one resident. “If the fuel has leaked into our groundwater, it isn’t just this one well—it could be all of them.”
Local leaders are calling for an immediate environmental assessment, as many households in the area rely on these wells for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in Nimba County have not yet officially released the identities of the two men. Police and health officials say investigations are ongoing to determine the exact chemical composition of the air inside the well and to verify the source of the suspected pollution.
For now, residents are being cautioned to avoid using well water that exhibits any unusual discoloration or chemical smells.
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