The Mayor of Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Michael Kpakpo Allotey has directed traders operating along the Korle Bu stretch to move into the designated areas for trading at Korle-Bu New Lorry Station Market.
The Mayor gave the directive on Tuesday during a working visit to the Ablekuma South Sub-Metropolitan District Council, where he engaged traders as part of efforts to decongest the area and ensure safe trading.
He explained that the decision was in line with a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, who had tasked him to create a conducive trading environment.
“The President has asked me to tell you that he came on your behalf and has directed me to ensure that you conduct your activities in a safe and proper environment. That is why we are moving you to the Korle Bu Market, which was built some years ago,” he said.
According to the Mayor, an inspection of the market revealed that most of the sheds were empty despite being provided to accommodate traders, cautioning that the facility was at risk of collapse if it continued to be underutilised.
“We can see that the market is collapsing because you have refused to occupy the market sheds,” he remarked.
Mr. Allotey assured traders that no fees would be collected from them in the process of relocating, stressing that all shops were being allocated free of charge, and directed the assemblyman for the area to supervise the exercise.
He also warned that traders who had turned their shops into residential spaces should vacate them immediately.
“Any shops not used for their intended purpose will be taken back by the Assembly and reallocated,” he added.
The Mayor expressed concern about the dangers of roadside trading, particularly along the Korle Bu stretch, adding that the relocation would provide them with proper spaces to carry out their businesses.
“Looking at where you are trading, if it rains, you will have to move. That is why we are making this effort to provide you with proper places to ply your trade,” he said.
The Mayor reiterated that the Assembly would continue to enforce order and cleanliness in the city, emphasising that the relocation exercise was part of broader efforts to decongest the metropolis and promote safe trading conditions.
Meanwhile, the Queen Mother of the Korle Bu New Station Market, Madam Ellena Addy, welcomed the Mayor’s directive and pledged her support.
She said the relocation exercise was in the best interest of the traders and urged them to cooperate.
“We all have to come together and work in unity. Thank you, and God bless you,” she told the gathering.
Source: AMA
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