The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has ordered the temporary closure of the Kaneshie footbridges following an inspection that revealed serious structural defects.
The directive, issued on Wednesday, aims to safeguard lives as authorities undertake urgent repair works on the deteriorating structures.
During the inspection, the Mayor urged traders and commuters occupying sections of the bridges to vacate immediately, stressing that public safety cannot be compromised. He warned that individuals who defy the directive or attempt to use the bridges unlawfully would face legal action.
He disclosed that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) will begin preliminary works using its Internally Generated Funds while awaiting additional support from the central government. According to him, parts of the bridges have significantly deteriorated, with exposed metal reinforcements visible due to broken concrete, indicating the urgent need for intervention.
The Mayor also called on residents to report unsafe buildings and structures within their communities, assuring swift response from city authorities to prevent potential disasters.
As part of broader efforts to tackle structural risks across the capital, he announced plans to collaborate with other Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives to carry out joint inspections in areas including Adenta, School Junction, Dansoman, and Agbogbloshie.
The exercise, to be spearheaded by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, will target unsafe developments, with non-compliant structures facing possible demolition.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Ablekuma Central, Frank Nkansah, attributed the deterioration of the footbridges to years of unauthorised trading activities, which have made maintenance difficult and damaged key components of the structures.
Supporting the decision, the Director of Urban Roads, James Oduro Amoo-Gottfried, noted that the bridges are in poor condition and require urgent attention. He added that temporary alternative routes, including designated pedestrian crossing points along the median of the Dr. Busia Highway, will be created to ensure safe movement while repair works are underway.
