Lamisi Adam
The relocated market circle traders of Takoradi have resolved to meet all 17 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the Western Region (WR) over the prolonged delay in the completion of the Old Takoradi Market.
The traders, calling themselves ‘Concerned Traders of Takoradi,’ used to ply their businesses at the Takoradi market circle, but were relocated to a temporary market near the Ahenfie Hotel in Takoradi to pave way for the redevelopment of the old market circle.
The traders claimed that they were assured that the redevelopment project was going to be done within two years so that they could go back to continue their respective economic activities.
However, the project could not be completed under the previous administration which started it. The market women claimed that the current government promised to complete the project, but it has been stalled.
The market women have lamented of low sales since their relocation some five years ago.
They disclosed that they have made incessant calls on government to, as a matter of urgency, complete the project, but to no avail.
“However, other markets and sod cuttings are being done for 24-hour markets,” they asserted.
The women noted how leaked roofs and security issues at the new market had also badly affected their lives.
“Livelihoods, families and dependents and even transportation continue to feel the pinch of the delayed projects,” they pointed out.
The traders, in their frustration, have decided to stop paying market tolls but organise series of protests to demand an end to their suffering.
The spokesperson for the market women, Madam Lamisi Adam, explained that the proposed meeting, which will have some Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) officials present, will seek to obtain an official update on the current status and progress of the old Takoradi market project.
She said it will also help to establish the actual stage of completion of the project, as well as identify any outstanding works or challenges affecting its completion.
“We also want to know the definite and realistic timeline for the completion, commissioning and handing over of the redeveloped market to traders.
“The market women again want to establish a clear roadmap for the return of traders who have been waiting for several years,” she pointed out.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi