The Accra Mayor, Honourable Michael Kpakpo Allotey has explained that rehabilitation works on the Kaneshie Market footbridges remain delayed due to ongoing activities under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project. He noted that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly cannot commence permanent repairs until the drainage works around the area are completed.
The Accra Mayor indicated that coordinating the two projects remains necessary to prevent additional expenditure on the footbridges after repairs begin. According to him, carrying out rehabilitation works before the GARID project reaches the affected area could lead to the Assembly spending resources twice.
Honourable Allotey disclosed that discussions have been held with officials responsible for the GARID project to establish a suitable timeline for the drainage works. He added that the project team has resolved some challenges around the Academy area, allowing parts of the construction process to continue.
“The GARID people have delayed their project, and we cannot go and do our work and allow them to come and remove everything again.”
Honourable Michael Kpakpo Allotey
The Accra Mayor further explained that the drainage improvement project stretches from Academy through Kaneshie to the Odaw Drain, covering areas connected to the footbridge location. He indicated that GARID officials are preparing to block one side of the road to allow drainage construction to proceed effectively.
Meanwhile, plans have been outlined to manage traffic movement during the next phase of the GARID works. Honourable Allotey revealed that vehicles from Mallam heading towards the area will use one side of the road after sections are closed for construction activities.
Additionally, the Mayor expressed his commitment to completing the footbridge rehabilitation because of its importance to residents and traders within the Kaneshie community. He explained that the project remains a priority for the Assembly once the drainage works provide the required space for construction.
The situation has created the need for stronger coordination between the Assembly and agencies involved in infrastructure development within the capital. The Accra Mayor stressed that government projects must work together to avoid delays and unnecessary financial burdens.
From his perspective, completing the GARID project will create the foundation needed for the Assembly to begin its planned rehabilitation works. Honourable Allotey therefore appealed for patience from residents as the two projects progress simultaneously.
The Mayor reiterated that the Assembly remains prepared to undertake the footbridge repairs once the drainage activities reach the appropriate stage. He assured residents that the delay forms part of a broader coordination process aimed at delivering a lasting solution for the area.
Pedestrian Safety Measures Intensify After Footbridge Locking
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly has introduced new safety arrangements to support pedestrians using the Kaneshie Market area after the footbridge was locked due to safety concerns. The Accra Mayor, Honourable Michael Kpakpo Allotey, explained that personnel have been assigned to assist residents cross safely while measures are put in place for the rehabilitation works.
The Mayor indicated that the decision to secure the footbridge followed calls from residents who raised alarm over its condition. He explained that the Assembly responded by restricting access to the structure and deploying officers to guide pedestrians who needed assistance.
Honourable Allotey disclosed that monitoring arrangements would be strengthened to ensure that the support system remains active throughout the week. He added that the Assembly would ensure the presence of personnel at the location from Sunday to Sunday to assist commuters.
“We are a listening Assembly. We heard people saying the bridge was weak, so we moved in and put men there to help people cross.”
Honourable Michael Kpakpo Allotey
Additionally, the Accra Mayor explained that maintaining safety around the area requires continuous attention because pedestrian movement remains high due to commercial activities around Kaneshie Market. He noted that the Assembly recognises the importance of providing a secure passage for residents while waiting for the permanent rehabilitation works.
The safety intervention is part of efforts to manage the situation until construction activities can begin after the completion of related drainage works under the GARID project. According to Honourable Allotey, the Assembly remains committed to protecting pedestrians during the transition period.
Meanwhile, the deployment of personnel has been designed to reduce risks associated with the damaged footbridge and guide people who rely on the route daily. The arrangement also seeks to prevent pedestrians from using unsafe sections while authorities work towards a lasting solution.
From his perspective, infrastructure challenges require immediate responses alongside long term planning. The Accra Mayor emphasised that local authorities must act quickly when residents raise issues affecting public safety.
Furthermore, the Assembly has continued engagements with relevant stakeholders involved in the GARID project to coordinate activities around the Kaneshie area. The collaboration aims to ensure that temporary measures and future construction plans operate smoothly without creating additional difficulties for residents.
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