The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to all traders and hawkers occupying unauthorised bus stops across the metropolis to immediately cease trading and vacate the affected locations ahead of a major enforcement exercise.
According to a press release signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, the directive follows concerns raised by commercial drivers over the obstruction of designated stopping points, which impedes the movement of vehicles and pedestrians and poses significant risks to public safety.
The Assembly acknowledged that the occupation of designated bus stops by hawkers obstructs the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, contributes to traffic congestion and forces commuters to board and alight from vehicles at unsafe locations, thereby increasing the risk of road accidents.
To address the situation, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has already initiated enforcement measures, including the removal of traders occupying unauthorised spaces at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Achimota and parts of the Central Business District.
The Assembly is therefore urging all hawkers and traders to immediately vacate designated bus stops and refrain from trading in areas reserved for the movement and stopping of vehicles and pedestrians.
It warned that it will intensify enforcement and take the necessary action against persons who disregard the directive in accordance with the Assembly’s by-laws.
Furthermore, the AMA cautioned hawkers against returning to cleared locations, noting that the reoccupation of bus stops will attract further enforcement action, including prosecution.
The Assembly reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order, promoting road safety and ensuring the orderly use of public spaces across the metropolis.
