By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has removed an illegally constructed shop extension at Tudu as the city entered day four of its ongoing decongestion exercise aimed at restoring pedestrian access and enforcing the Assembly’s Red Line directive.
The operation, carried out on Wednesday, followed repeated warnings to the shop owner and a direct order from the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who said the extension constructed with canopies had obstructed the pavement and restricted public use of the walkway.
Addressing traders during the exercise, the Mayor stressed that public walkways are state property and must not be converted into private trading spaces.
“I will not allow private interests to take over public space. These pavements belong to everyone and cannot be treated as a commodity,” he said.
Hon. Allotey further dismissed claims that trading spaces were being sold, stating clearly that he was not collecting money from anyone and had instructed his task force to communicate that the space was not for sale.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Red Line remains visible and enforced, describing the decongestion exercise as a lasting legacy he intends to leave behind. According to him, the exercise will continue despite criticism from some quarters.
The Mayor explained that the AMA’s actions are meant to protect livelihoods, particularly for traders who cannot afford permanent shops, and urged those with shops to stop extending their operations onto public walkways.
He warned that any trader found occupying both a shop and an additional portion of the pavement would be removed to create room for others.
Hon. Allotey also cautioned that no individual has the authority to prevent fellow Ghanaians from trading in approved spaces, adding that the Assembly would step in where people attempt to use wealth or influence to block others from operating.
The AMA says the decongestion exercise will continue across the Central Business District as part of efforts to improve order, safety, and accessibility in the capital.
