The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to traders occupying designated bus stops across Accra, Ghana, to vacate the areas. This directive aims to restore order and ease traffic congestion in the metropolis. The AMA's move comes amid pressure from commercial drivers who have threatened industrial action if the government fails to clear traders from bus stops. The drivers' concerns are linked to the newly introduced TrafficTek traffic enforcement technology.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) had planned to embark on industrial action but postponed it until the end of November, citing the need for the government to address the situation. Drivers fear that the continued occupation of bus stops by hawkers could expose them to penalties for stopping at unauthorised locations. The GPRTU has given the government until the end of November to resolve the situation, warning that failure to clear the traders would compel it to take action.
The AMA has acknowledged that the occupation of designated bus stops by hawkers obstructs the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, contributing to traffic congestion and forcing commuters to board and alight from vehicles at unsafe locations. The Assembly warned that the situation poses significant risks to public safety and could increase the incidence of road accidents. The Mayor of Accra, Michael KpakpoAllotey, has initiated enforcement measures, including the removal of traders occupying unauthorised spaces.
The AMA has directed all hawkers and traders operating at designated bus stops to immediately cease trading and vacate the affected locations within 48 hours. The Assembly warned that it would intensify enforcement and take action against persons who fail to comply with the directive in accordance with its by-laws. Traders who return to locations that have been cleared could face further enforcement measures, including prosecution.
The GPRTU's concerns centre on the difficulties commercial drivers face in accessing designated bus stops, particularly under the TrafficTek enforcement system. Drivers fear that the continued occupation of bus stops by hawkers could leave them with limited options for picking up and dropping off passengers, potentially exposing them to fines. The union has raised concerns about the additional financial burden of operating from alternative locations.
The AMA defended its directive, stating that the exercise forms part of its commitment to maintaining public order, promoting road safety, and ensuring the orderly use of public spaces. The Assembly urged traders to cooperate with the directive and refrain from conducting business in areas reserved for the movement of vehicles and pedestrians. Restoring designated bus stops to their intended use is necessary to improve traffic movement and protect commuters.
The AMA's enforcement exercise is set to begin, with the Assembly warning that it will take action against persons who fail to comply with the directive. The situation has significant implications for commuters, drivers, and traders, with the potential for increased traffic congestion and road accidents if not addressed. The AMA's efforts aim to promote public safety and order in the metropolis.
Key points
- The Accra Metropolitan Assembly has given traders 48 hours to vacate designated bus stops to ease traffic congestion and restore order.
- The Ghana Private Road Transport Union has postponed its planned industrial action until the end of November, citing the need for the government to address the situation.
- The AMA's enforcement exercise aims to promote public safety and order in the metropolis.
