The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has begun the replacement of stolen, old, and rusted metal gratings covering openings on drains across the city in a bid to restore public safety and prevent accidents on pedestrian walkways.

The initiative, which began on Sunday, forms part of the Mayor of Accra's broader efforts to enhance urban infrastructure and safeguard residents, especially pedestrians who use footpaths along major roads and commercial areas in the national capital.

According to the Head of Public Affairs, Gilbert Nii Ankrah,  several areas within the Central Business District and other parts of the metropolis have been identified as high-risk due to missing or deteriorated drain covers, which pose significant dangers to the public.

“This intervention is a directive from the Mayor of Accra, Hon Michael Kpakpo Allotey, aimed at preventing injuries and ensuring the safety of pedestrians. The open drains not only create hazards for passersby but also contribute to sanitation challenges and flooding when clogged with waste,” he said.

He disclosed that a total of 50 metal gratings would be replaced on key streets, including Kojo Thompson Road, Guggisberg Avenue, and Asafoatse Nettey Road, among others, adding that the exercise was ongoing and would continue in phases until all identified danger spots are addressed.

He noted that, much as the new metal gratings were designed to deter theft and withstand heavy usage over time, residents and traders had a responsibility to support the initiative by protecting public infrastructure and promptly reporting any cases of vandalism or theft to the authorities.

He reiterated the Mayor’s commitment to creating a safer and more resilient city, emphasising that investments in basic urban infrastructure were key to achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents.

Mr. Densely Kwesi Humphreys, Resilience and Special Initiatives Advisor at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, said the exercise was also aligned with the government's inclusive infrastructure goals, which prioritise safe and accessible public spaces for all, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.

“Our immediate concern is the safety of pedestrians who risk serious injury when navigating walkways with exposed drain openings. This intervention is not just about replacing metal covers; it is about resetting, restoring dignity and security in the use of public spaces,” he stated.

“We are also working on a monitoring mechanism to help protect these installations and report any further acts of vandalism or theft.”