The relentless gridlock of Accra, a daily trial for residents and commuters alike, may soon see some relief. The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced a comprehensive decongestion exercise slated to begin on May 20, 2025, targeting some of the city’s most congested areas, including Kinbu Road and its environs. This initiative, aimed at enforcing existing Hawkers Bye-Laws and Road Traffic Regulations, marks a significant step towards alleviating the chronic traffic woes plaguing the capital. The Accra decongestion effort involves collaboration among key stakeholders, including the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), the Ghana Police Service, market leaders, and transport unions. The operation seeks to restore order and improve traffic flow in critical areas of the city.

The AMA’s initiative is not just about clearing the streets; it’s about creating a more livable and efficient urban environment. By targeting specific locations and enforcing existing regulations, the AMA hopes to create a ripple effect, encouraging a more disciplined approach to urban planning and management.

Accra Decongestion: Key Areas and Timeline

The decongestion exercise will be rolled out in three phases, each targeting specific areas of the city.

Day 1: Kinbu Road and Surrounding Areas (May 20, 2025)

The upcoming decongestion exercise by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) will target areas around the AMA Head Office, Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, Zongo Lane, and Opera Square to Adabraka on the first day of the operation, scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025. These areas, known for their heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic, will be the initial focus of the AMA’s efforts. The goal is to clear obstructions and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Day 2: Kwame Nkrumah Circle and Adjoining Roads

Day 2 will see action from Wato Junction through King Tackie Tawiah School and Cow Lane, UTC Road to Timber Market, and parts of the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, including Las Palmas and Glamour Road. These locations are notorious for their chaotic mix of vehicles, pedestrians, and street vendors, contributing to severe congestion. The AMA aims to address these issues by enforcing regulations and providing alternative trading locations for affected vendors.

Day 3: Kaneshie Enclave and Kwame Nkrumah Circle (Remaining Portions)

…while Day 3 will target the remaining portions of the Circle and the Kaneshie enclave, including Pamprom Lane and the footbridges. These areas, characterized by their high pedestrian traffic and informal trading activities, pose significant challenges to traffic management. The AMA’s plan involves clearing these areas and implementing measures to prevent future congestion.

Legal Basis and Stakeholder Involvement

Enforcement of AMA Bye-Laws

In a statement issued by the AMA on Friday, it said the exercise is in strict enforcement of the AMA Hawkers Bye-Laws (2017) and Section 117(1) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), both of which prohibit activities that impede pedestrian and vehicular movement in public areas. These laws provide the legal framework for the AMA’s actions and underscore its commitment to enforcing order and discipline in the city.

Stakeholder Consultations and Support

The three-day phase exercise is being spearheaded by the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), with support from the Ghana Police Service, market leaders, transport unions, and other key stakeholders.

It added that prior stakeholder consultations had been held and confirmed that enough space exists within designated markets to accommodate traders. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption to the livelihoods of affected individuals.

AMA’s 24-Hour City Operation Model

Urban Renewal Strategy

The statement also announced the AMA’s intention to introduce a 24-hour city operation model as part of its urban renewal strategy, which would include a dedicated clean-up and security task force to support improved sanitation and safe night-time commercial activities in the capital. This initiative reflects the AMA’s broader vision of creating a vibrant and sustainable urban environment.

Call for Public Support and Cooperation

The statement called on the public to lend their support to the exercise, urging full cooperation from affected groups to help restore order and dignity to the city.

The AMA believes that with the support of the public, the decongestion exercise can achieve its goals and create a more livable and efficient Accra for all.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s decongestion exercise, commencing May 20, 2025, represents a determined effort to tackle the persistent challenges of traffic congestion in the city. The operation will focus initially on Kinbu Road and surrounding areas before expanding to other critical locations. By enforcing existing regulations and collaborating with key stakeholders, the AMA aims to restore order and improve traffic flow, which ultimately contributes to a more pleasant and efficient urban experience for residents and commuters. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with the AMA during this transition. More detailed information about the Accra Decongestion exercise can be found on the AMA’s official website and social media channels.