An Environmental Health Analyst at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), Mr. Joseph A. Asitanga, has hinted that until some challenges are addressed, gains made from the ongoing clean-up exercise will not have the needed impact.
The challenges, he enumerated, include the unwillingness of squatters to assist in the clean-up; non-availability of access routes, and the claim that they (the squatters) had not been informed.
He therefore called for more information on the project.
He observed that if the above challenges are not addressed, the desired results from the clean-up operation will not be achieved.
He made the recommendation on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 during the three-month daily clean operation embarked upon by the task force of Operation Clean Your Frontage (OCYF).
The OCYF began their operations at the Circle-Neoplan Station enclave, ensuring sanity in the area. They cleared make-shift structures, cement blocks and concrete structures from obstructing smooth movement.
Traders along the Circle-Avenor road were directed to remove the nuisance they had created.
Those who took over the areas earmarked for pavements and temporary parking lots were ordered to evacuate their wares.
Shopowners complained about brothels along the drains, whose activities they indicated are polluting and impeding free flow of water – and suggested they should be evacuated.
They further lamented that the activities of sex-workers identified to be foreigners are impeding the free-flow of water through the drains and gutters.
“We are committed to ensuring regular cleaning of the area. In fact, it is something we have been doing; but the issue is drivers who park their vehicles along the gutters after returning from their long journeys,” a shopowner said under strict condition of anonymity.
A mop-up is expected to be conducted tomorrow to ensure compliance, according to Mr. Asitanga.
A team of delegates including Mr. Asitanga went to inspect the Kaneshie Market and Station, brought back a bad report.
According to Mr. Asitanga, upon reaching the location it was observed that the evictees had suddenly returned to the streets – making enforcement a difficult task.
Shopowners therefore suggested that the activities of sex workers be halted by authorities, and they must be evacuated immediately.
Speaking to journalitsts, the Environmental Health Officer-AMA, Mr. Ishmael Tagoe, said six vehicles were clamped and towed to the Assembly pending prosecution.
Three mechanics were caught and sent to the Neoplan Police Station for open-burning.
