The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Pusiga has expressed concerns that traders affected by the demolition of the old Pusiga market may face up to two years of disruption. The party claims that the Pusiga District Assembly failed to adequately plan for the relocation of traders before the old market was demolished. As a result, some affected traders have been left to construct temporary sheds and kiosks for themselves.
NPP Communications Officer for Pusiga, Sumaila Jafaru, addressed the media on the issue, stating that the party was worried about how traders would sustain their businesses during the construction period. According to him, the alternative trading area was not adequately prepared to accommodate all the affected traders before they were moved from the old market. This has led to some traders operating in unsuitable conditions.
The NPP also raised concerns about the capacity of the temporary trading area, stating that it is inadequate, leaving some traders without suitable spaces to operate. Mr Jafaru further questioned the location of the new market, citing that it is within a residential area with houses surrounding the project site. The party claims that residents were informed that the disruption associated with the project could last at least two years.
The NPP is not opposed to the construction of the new market but is questioning the planning and timing of the project. The party is demanding clarity from the government and the Pusiga District Assembly on the construction timeline and the arrangements made to support affected traders while work continues. They also want the Assembly to explain why the old market was demolished before alternative trading arrangements were adequately put in place.
The NPP linked its concerns about the market to other development challenges in Pusiga, including the unfinished Agenda 111 hospital and poor inner roads. Mr Jafaru stated that development projects should improve livelihoods while limiting the disruption experienced by residents during their implementation. The party is calling for better planning and coordination to minimize the impact of such projects on the community.
The construction of the new market is expected to be a 24-hour market, but the NPP is worried about the timeline and its impact on traders. The party described the two-year timeline as worrying, given the current stage of construction. Mr Jafaru emphasized that two years is a long time, equivalent to 730 full days, and that the party is seeking answers on how traders will cope during this period.
The NPP's concerns highlight the need for effective planning and coordination in the implementation of development projects. The party's demands for clarity and better planning are aimed at minimizing the disruption experienced by traders and residents. The Pusiga District Assembly and the government have yet to respond to the NPP's concerns, but it is clear that the issue will continue to be a topic of discussion in the coming days.
Key points
- NPP says Pusiga traders may face two years of disruption after market demolition
- Traders were not adequately relocated before old market demolition
- New market location and timeline raise concerns among NPP and residents
