The direction provinciale de l'Office de voirie et drainage (OVD) in Kasaï Oriental has launched a call to authorities to intervene in the occupation of sidewalks by small businesses in Mbuji-Mayi. According to Germain Lubela, chargé de communication at the OVD, the situation has become alarming, with pedestrians facing difficulties navigating the sidewalks due to the presence of various commercial activities.
The occupation of sidewalks has become a common phenomenon in Mbuji-Mayi, with vendors selling fuel, fruits, and spare parts, among other goods, setting up their stalls directly on the sidewalks. This has forced pedestrians, including children, elderly people, and others, to risk their lives by walking on the roads, where they are exposed to accidents involving motorcycles, vehicles, and pushcarts.
The OVD has expressed concerns that the occupation of sidewalks not only affects pedestrians but also damages the infrastructure. The office has warned that the installations on the sidewalks can contribute to the degradation of the roads and reduce the effectiveness of drainage systems. Germain Lubela emphasized that it is essential to preserve the road and drainage infrastructure, which was built at a significant cost.
The OVD has called on the authorities to take responsibility and enforce order in the road reserves. The office believes that it is crucial to protect the sidewalks and ensure that they remain accessible to pedestrians. The authorities are expected to take action to address the issue and prevent further degradation of the infrastructure.
According to the OVD, the situation is not only a concern for pedestrians but also for the overall development of the city. The office has urged the authorities to work with stakeholders to find a solution to the problem. The OVD has also called on the occupants of the sidewalks to vacate the area to avoid any further action.
The issue of sidewalk occupation is not unique to Mbuji-Mayi, as many cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo face similar challenges. However, the OVD's call for intervention highlights the need for authorities to take a proactive approach to addressing the issue. The OVD's efforts aim to promote a safe and accessible urban environment for all citizens.
The OVD's message to the occupants of the sidewalks is clear: they must vacate the area to allow pedestrians to use the sidewalks safely. The office has also reiterated its commitment to working with authorities and stakeholders to find a lasting solution to the problem.
Key points
- The OVD has called on authorities to intervene in the occupation of sidewalks by small businesses in Mbuji-Mayi.
- The occupation of sidewalks poses a risk to pedestrians and damages the infrastructure.
- The authorities are expected to take action to address the issue and prevent further degradation of the infrastructure.
