The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has cleared an illegal structure built on a fire hydrant at Kantamanto in the Central Business District (CBD) to restore access and enhance fire safety in the area.
Mayor Allotey ordered the removal of the structure when he visited the fire scene at Bank Road, Liberty Avenue on Tuesday to assess the extent of damage.
He explained that the Assembly was not previously aware of the structure’s existence but would take steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“I found out about this today and will remove the illegal structure. I will make sure the person responsible is charged and prosecuted in court this is unacceptable,” the Mayor said.
The Mayor also cautioned traders and residents against operating on roadways and near essential installations, warning that such practices obstruct traffic and hamper emergency response efforts.
“When people set up and operate on the roadside, they obstruct traffic and endanger others. I have told them to move back to the designated selling areas and to stop occupying the roadway. I know some of you have suffered losses recently, and I sympathise, but leaving the roadside blocked is not an option,” he said.
Mayor Allotey reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing the city’s building and safety regulations under the “Resetting Accra” agenda, stating that enforcement would be consistent and without exception.
“I promised the people I would act, and I will keep that promise. This time we will enforce the rules without leniency, no exceptions. We will take decisive action to correct this and ensure the safety and order of our streets,” he declared.
He further indicated that other unauthorised wooden and metal structures in the Kantamanto enclave would also be cleared to improve accessibility for emergency services and prevent future fire hazards, adding that the AMA was working closely with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and other agencies to strengthen fire prevention and ensure compliance with city safety standards.