The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has announced a traffic management operation for this year’s festive season, centred on intensified patrols, strict enforcement of road regulations and the deployment of additional MTTD personnel across major congestion hotspots.
She said the measures were aimed at preventing the annual chaos that gripped Accra and Tema in December due to heavy vehicular and human traffic, especially around busy commercial zones, entertainment centres and major intersections.
The proposed plan is an outcome of a Regional Security Council (REGSEC) meeting held in Accra last Thursday, bringing together Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), Regional Police Commanders, MTTD heads and other security actors to discuss the region’s readiness for the festive period.
Enhanced patrols
Mrs Ocloo explained that the surge in activity during Christmas demanded a firm, coordinated and proactive response from all security and local government agencies.
Under the new strategy, she said police patrols would be increased across both day and night shifts, particularly in areas known for heavy congestion.
She said additional MTTD officers would be deployed to manage traffic at targeted hotspots such as major intersections, malls, market centres, entertainment hubs, pubs, clubs and event venues expected to attract large crowds.
The minister stated that the strict enforcement was meant to ensure smooth mobility, reduce unnecessary delays and enhance safety.
“There will be no relaxation in enforcement. Anyone who flouts road traffic rules will face the law.
“Our priority is to prevent gridlock and protect lives,” she said.
Abandoned vehicles
As part of efforts to clear road obstructions, Mrs Ocloo directed that all abandoned or broken-down vehicles along principal streets be towed immediately to the nearest police command.
She added that vehicle owners whose cars were removed would face a GH¢2,000 fine.
She said this was meant to discourage behaviours that caused congestion and inconvenienced other road users.
She cautioned that indiscriminate parking, unauthorised street trading and obstruction of pavements and roadways would attract swift sanctions, with enforcement teams mandated to act decisively.
Drains, medians
The minister also issued strong instructions to all MMDCEs to improve sanitation and drainage conditions across their jurisdictions as part of the festive season preparation.
She directed the immediate desilting of all choked drains, clearing of bushy medians and routine cleaning of public spaces, adding that these measures were mandated by the President.
Mrs Ocloo warned that any MMDCE who failed to comply during the festive season and beyond would face sanctions, stressing that sanitation and flood prevention were integral to public safety.
Public vigilance
The minister urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious behaviour or unusual activity to the nearest police station, assuring the public that all reports would be handled promptly.
She emphasised that the new measures were not intended to inconvenience the public but to ensure a safe, orderly and enjoyable festive season for all residents and visitors.
“These directives are meant to safeguard lives, protect livelihoods and create a conducive environment for social and economic activity during this period,” she stated.
