The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has paid a working visit to selected security agencies in the metropolis to mobilise operational support for a major decongestion exercise scheduled to begin on February 1.

The visit formed part of efforts by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) to ensure strong coordination and readiness among security services ahead of the operation. Agencies visited included the Ministries, Accra Central, Railways, Jamestown, Korle Bu, Mamprobi and Kaneshie security commands, as well as the 31st Makola Metro Fire Station and the North Industrial Area (STC) Fire Station.

Speaking to the media after the engagements, the Mayor commended the security agencies for what he described as effective and visible policing during the festive season.

He noted that the heightened security presence across the city contributed to the calm and orderly conduct of activities during the period.

He disclosed that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly also operated on a 24-hour basis throughout the festive season and expressed appreciation, on behalf of President John Mahama, for the dedication and professionalism shown by officers and their commanders.

The Mayor assured the agencies that concerns raised during the visits would be addressed. He said he would work closely with relevant departments of the Assembly and key stakeholders to resolve challenges affecting effective policing and emergency response.

Touching on the planned decongestion exercise, he said the operation would mark a clear shift from persuasion to strict enforcement of city by-laws. He said that the Assembly would apply the law fully during the exercise.

He explained that the February 1 operation forms part of the AMA’s broader efforts to restore order in the Central Business District and other congestion-prone areas, improve pedestrian safety, enhance traffic flow, and strengthen sanitation enforcement across the city.

According to the Mayor, the exercise will require coordinated, intelligence-led and professional support from the security services to ensure that enforcement is firm but orderly, and carried out with restraint and respect for the public.