By Joyce Danso
Accra, Nov. 05, GNA-The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has asked all traders occupying unauthorised bus stops to immediately cease trading and vacate them within 48 hours.
This is to ensure the enforcement of an exercise to restore order and ensure the proper use of public spaces, especially bus stops.
A statement issued and signed by Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Head of Public Affairs, AMA said the directive followed concerns raised by commercial drivers over the obstruction of designated stopping points, which impede the movement of vehicles and pedestrians.
The statement said AMA acknowledge that the occupation of designated bus stops by hawkers obstruct the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, thereby contributing to traffic congestion.
It noted that it also forces commuters to board and alight from vehicles at unsafe locations, increasing the risk of road accidents.
To address the situation, the statement said 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 (CBD).
“The Assembly is therefore urging all hawkers and traders to immediately vacate bus stops and refrain from trading in areas reserved for their movement and the stopping of vehicles and pedestrians, as the Assembly will intensify enforcement and take necessary action against persons who disregard this directive in accordance with the Assembly’s by-laws,” the statement said.
The statement also cautioned hawkers against returning to cleared locations saying, “reoccupation of bus stops ill attract further enforcement action including prosecution.”
“AMA remains committed to maintaining public order, promoting road safety and ensuring the orderly use of public spaces across the metropolis,” the statement added.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah