The Accra Metropolitan Assembly has issued a final warning to traders operating along the streets of Lapaz to vacate the area within seven days or risk facing enforcement action.
The warning was announced on Thursday, May 7, during a joint inspection exercise led by Linda Ocloo, Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey, and the Municipal Chief Executive for Okaikwei North Municipal Assembly, Christian Tetteh Badger.
The exercise forms part of renewed efforts by city authorities to decongest the busy commercial enclave and improve the movement of both vehicles and pedestrians.
Officials said traders occupying pavements, roadsides and zebra crossings have until next week to remove their goods and structures from the area. Authorities warned that sanctions would be imposed on persons who fail to comply with the directive after the deadline expires.
As part of interim measures, some traders affected by the exercise are being moved to nearby markets, including Achimota, Kisseman and Abeka markets, while authorities work on long-term arrangements to accommodate them.
Speaking during the exercise, Christian Tetteh Badger said the decongestion campaign is intended to restore order in the area and ensure safer movement for commuters and residents.
According to him, prior discussions had already been held with market leaders and the market queen to facilitate a fair allocation of trading spaces for affected traders.
He added that engineering teams and task force personnel had been deployed to ensure the exercise is strictly enforced.
“The Information Services Department van came around last week to issue a one-week ultimatum, directing that by next Monday, no one should be selling on the streets or on the zebra crossing”, he said.
City authorities maintain that the operation forms part of broader measures to improve sanitation, reduce congestion and maintain order within the capital.
