The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has announced a GH?2,000 fine for traders operating on pavements and streets within the Central Business District (CBD).

This announcement follows a decongestion exercise jointly undertaken by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly on Tuesday, May 20, aimed at clearing street traders from unauthorised locations.

The exercise forms part of a broader initiative to reduce congestion, enforce city bylaws, and improve sanitation in the capital city.

While touring the CBD during the operation, Minister Ocloo issued a firm warning against any interference with the ongoing clean-up efforts, emphasising the government’s determination to restore order in the metropolis.

“We are going to activate our task force to work 24 hours. They are going to draw a red line on the road, so with this, when you cross the line, you have a fee to pay, which is 1500gh, maximum 2000gh. We are going to make sure that we have leaders in all the markets who will be monitoring, aside from the task force, and make sure that the right things are being done.”

In a related development, the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of the AMA, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, disclosed that the Assembly is considering plans to block specific streets within the CBD on designated days.

He explained that the measure is part of efforts to regulate street trading under the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.

“With those who do not have space in the market, under the 24-hour economy plan, there is going to be a day that the street will be blocked for the market women to sell on the street and take our ticket while we divert the drivers to a different road. So there will be days that they will be allowed to sell on the street.”

The MCE added that the initiative will ensure continued economic activity in a lawful and structured manner, without compromising city order.