A scene from the demolition exercise
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has intensified its citywide decongestion exercise ahead of the Christmas festivities, with the launch of ‘Operation Let the Traffic Flow’ to clear traders from bus stops, pavements and other unauthorised spaces.
The exercise, which began over the weekend, follows a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Assembly on November 4, 2026, directing all traders occupying designated bus stops across the metropolis to vacate.
Enforcement had already begun at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Achimota and parts of the Central Business District (CBD) before the 48-hour notice expired.
The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, together with the Korle Klottey Municipal Chief Executive, Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, led AMA officials and security personnel in an enforcement exercise at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle to remove traders occupying unauthorised bus stops and public spaces.
The task force dismantled unauthorised structures erected on road pavements and seized items displayed by street traders as part of efforts to clear the streets. According to the AMA Mayor, the operation forms part of efforts to clear the bus stops and surrounding areas to reduce traffic congestion as well as ensure the smooth movement of vehicles and commuters.
The exercise is also aimed at restoring order at the busy Circle transport hub, where roadside trading has contributed to congestion and obstructed pedestrian and vehicular movement.
The Welfare Secretary of Neoplan Lorry Station, Kasim Alhassan, expressed satisfaction with the exercise, commending the Mayor and his task force. He said the ongoing operation would help improve traffic flow and restore order within the area.
The directive follows concerns raised by commercial drivers, particularly the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), over the obstruction of designated stopping points. The drivers had threatened industrial action by the end of November 2026 if the government failed to clear traders occupying designated bus stops across the country.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke