By Deladem Afi Nanevie
Tema Manhean, Jan. 16, GNA – The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has issued a stern warning to developers and business operators within the metropolis to obtain all required permits and documentation before commencing operations, stressing that non-compliance will attract sanctions.
The warning followed the immediate suspension of operations of a 100-tonne capacity cold store located in Tema Manhean by the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE).
Mr Frank Asante, the Public Relations Officer of the TMA, speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), disclosed that the assembly would soon commission a technical monitoring team made up of permit officers, safety experts, and representatives from relevant stakeholder agencies to enforce compliance across the metropolis.
Mr Asante stated that Madam Ebi Bright, the Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive, ordered the immediate suspension of operations of a 100-tonne capacity cold store after its operators failed to produce the requisite building and operational permits during an on-site inspection, despite repeated warnings.
He said the decision followed the discovery of an abandoned refrigerated truck parked along the Tema Newtown stretch, obstructing the free flow of traffic and posing safety concerns.
He explained that the presence of the unattended truck prompted the assembly to verify the legality of the cold store’s operations, including its permits and documentation.
“The truck was left in the middle of the road, causing significant traffic disruption,” Mr Asante said, adding that three prior warnings had been issued to the operators of the facility, all of which were ignored.
He noted that had the facility been operating legally, proper arrangements would have been made for offloading, including traffic management measures to prevent inconvenience to road users.
“Normally, a facility with the appropriate permits would have designated offloading points and traffic control systems in place to avoid such disruptions,” he added.
He said the assembly remained committed to assisting businesses to regularise their operations but would not compromise on public safety and regulatory compliance.
“The MCE’s priority is to ensure safety and order by preventing illegal and unsafe operations from taking root,” he said.
He said the assembly has directed that the cold store remains shut until all necessary permits and documentation are duly obtained and verified.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Linda Asante Agyei
