Shoppers, commuters, pedestrians, and traders in the Central Business District (CBD) of Accra have lauded the recent decongestion exercise, describing the area as more comfortable, safer, and easier to navigate.

The exercise, carried out on May 20 by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) in collaboration with the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), saw hawkers, vendors, and unauthorised vehicles cleared from major streets, pavements, and trading spaces in a coordinated effort to restore order and enhance mobility.

The operation targeted high-traffic zones such as Kinbu, Tudu, Makola, Rawlings Park, China Lane, Kantamanto, the Circle Interchange, VIP Bus Terminal, Kaneshie Market, First Light, Bubuashie, and areas within the Ashiedu-Keteke Sub-Metro.

The initiative has been met with widespread public approval, with many expressing relief at the newly accessible walkways and improved flow of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

“For once, I can walk freely without bumping into stalls from Tudu to Makola. Shopping here feels less stressful now. This initiative ought to be sustained,” said Naa Ayorkor Lomotey, a shopper and mother of two.

Kwabena Mensah, a pedestrian at Rawlings Park, also expressed satisfaction, saying: “The pavements are finally clear. It’s safer and faster to get to work on foot. This decongestion exercise is a game-changer.”

Anita Sedinam Asiamah, a commuter, echoed similar sentiments, saying that: “Traffic has reduced a bit since the hawkers were cleared. I can walk swiftly from Avenor Junction to the Neoplan Station. Surely, this exercise will make my daily commute smoother.”

Some traders also commended the move, because it levelled the playing field for formal businesses operating from inside the markets.

“The exercise is necessary. It brings discipline and helps serious traders like us who operate from inside the market. Those who operate on the pavement have been put to check and must abide by the directives. This is what we have been yearning for,” said Fatima Alhassan, a trader at Makola.

However, others raised concerns about the lack of alternative trading spaces, which they said forced many vendors to return to unauthorised spots.

“The absence of alternative trading spaces is a major problem. Many traders, including myself, do not have sheds. Flooding in the market area has also pushed us onto the streets,” Naa Manko Tettefio Anang, a trader at Odawna-Circle, said.

Mr Michael Kpakpo Allotey, the Chief Executive of the AMA, and Mr Alfred Ato Allotey-Gaisie, the Municipal Chief Executive of KoKMA, reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the exercise beyond the initial three-day period.

They said all emerging challenges would be addressed through continuous engagement with stakeholders, and promised 24-hour sanitation and security operations to help transform Accra into a model African City.