AMA gives traders 48 hours to vacate unauthorised bus stops ahead of enforcement

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has given traders occupying unauthorised bus stops across the metropolis 48 hours to vacate the locations ahead of an intensified enforcement exercise.

The directive, issued in a press release on Wednesday, November 4, is aimed at restoring order at designated bus stops and ensuring the proper use of public spaces.

It follows concerns raised by commercial drivers over the occupation of bus stops by hawkers, which they say obstructs the movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

According to the AMA, the practice also contributes to traffic congestion and forces commuters to board and alight from vehicles at unsafe locations, increasing the risk of road accidents.

“The AMA is therefore urging all hawkers and traders to immediately vacate designated bus stops and refrain from trading in areas reserved for their movement and the stopping of vehicles and pedestrians,” the statement said in part.

The Assembly disclosed that the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, had already initiated enforcement measures, leading to the removal of traders occupying unauthorised spaces at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Achimota and parts of the Central Business District (CBD).

It cautioned that traders who fail to comply with the directive would face further enforcement action in accordance with the Assembly's by-laws.

The AMA also cautioned traders against returning to locations that had already been cleared, warning that offenders could face prosecution.

“The reoccupation of bus stops will attract further enforcement action including prosecution,” the statement noted.