The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) launched an operation to clear traders and individuals who have occupied bus stops and pavements around the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, popularly known as Circle.
This effort, which began on Monday, June 3, 2024, mirrors a similar exercise conducted in 2017, prior to the construction of the €74 million interchange. At that time, traders were also removed by the AMA to ensure the area remained accessible for pedestrians.
However, keeping the roads clear continues to be a challenge, as the evicted traders have returned to the streets.
To understand the traders’ concerns and explore possible solutions to the congestion, The Independent Ghana engaged those affected by the AMA’s directive.
These roadside traders emphasized that relocating from their current locations would significantly hinder their ability to earn a living, as their goods and services are in high demand within the area.
They also pointed out that the government has not provided an alternative space where they can continue their trading and service activities.
“If you are sacking us, you should give us an alternative. You cannot send us away like animals. If you want us to leave the streets because you care for us, you should direct us to a place you have available. Until then, efforts to sack us will not work,” Mr. Alhassan, who sells phone accessories by the roadside, passionately expressed.
A phone vendor, Madam Janet, explained, “The taskforce agents were sacking us, but it will not work. Not all of us can do government work, so what we do by the roadside helps us. As it stands now, if your phone gets missing and you need a new one, you will come to me. So even if they sack us, when they go, we will return.”
“I have five children, and this is the only place I have settled to take care of them. Some are in the university. Some of them have graduated, while others are in secondary school writing their exams. So, if the government can do something about it, they should work on it.”
Despite the government’s efforts to alleviate street congestion, the issue persists. Finding a compromise, ensuring strict enforcement by security agencies, or providing a designated market space for these traders may be the most effective solutions moving forward.
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