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.
Following several warnings to the store owner and a direct directive from Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who claimed that the canopy-constructed expansion had blocked the pavement and limited public usage of the walkway, the operation was conducted on Wednesday. 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 stated.
Furthermore, Hon. Allotey denied rumours that trade spaces were being sold, making it apparent that he was not collecting money from anyone and that he had given his task force instructions to inform people 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 asked shop owners to refrain from expanding their businesses onto public pathways, explaining that the AMA’s efforts are intended to protect livelihoods, especially for traders who cannot afford permanent shopfronts.
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.
As part of initiatives to enhance accessibility, safety, and order in the capital, the AMA says the decongestion exercise will continue across the Central Business District.
