Officials of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), led by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, have removed unauthorised structures along the Korle Bu stretch, following an earlier directive for traders to relocate to the designated Korle Bu New Lorry Station Market.
The operation, which started at Mamprobi Plaza and progressed to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital along Guggisberg Avenue, is part of the Assembly’s ongoing efforts to reduce congestion in the area and ensure that trading activities are conducted safely and in an orderly manner.
The exercise involved the removal of unauthorised structures, including canopies, wooden and metal sheds, shipping containers, kiosks, and tables. It also included the removal of illegal signage and banners that had been placed along road shoulders and pedestrian walkways.
Speaking during the operation, Mr Allotey reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to restoring order and ensuring that business activities are carried out within approved trading zones.
He noted that the exercise followed several engagements with traders, adding that the number of unauthorised structures had been increasing daily, prompting the AMA to act swiftly before the situation worsened.
“Ghanaians voted for the NDC to reset the country, and that is why His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama appointed me to reset the city of Accra,” the Mayor stated.
He cautioned traders against paying money to any Assembly official or individual in exchange for permission to erect unauthorised structures, warning that such structures would be removed immediately.
Hon. Allotey urged residents and traders to support the Assembly’s efforts to bring sanity to the metropolis and warned individuals using the Assembly’s name to extort money from traders and ratepayers to desist or face prosecution.
He explained that all affected traders would be relocated to the Korle Bu New Lorry Station Market, which has available sheds and adequate space for trading.
“The relocation is not to deprive anyone of their livelihood. It is to ensure your safety and maintain order. The President has instructed that all trading activities be conducted in proper and secure environments, and the Korle Bu Market was built for that purpose,” he said.