The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, has issued a stern reminder to residents and business owners in Accra to keep the newly inaugurated Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange free from unauthorized structures such as kiosks, wooden shops, and mechanic workshops.
Speaking at the launch of Phase II of the Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange on Friday, November 29, the minister stressed the importance of maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of the infrastructure as a priority for city planners.
“Last week Tuesday, during the commissioning of the Flower Pot Interchange, I did say and let me repeat that we don’t want any kiosks, we don’t want any mechanics around the shoulders of this interchange,” he said.
“Immediately after I gave the warning last week, a coconut seller and a banana seller tested my resolve. Let us not put anything here. Let us allow the ambience and the beauty of the place to continue,” he added.
This reminder follows his previous stance on similar issues at the Flower Pot Interchange, where informal businesses have begun to encroach on newly completed infrastructure.
The minister expressed concern over the tendency for new infrastructural projects in Accra to be quickly overtaken by informal businesses. He cited a recent incident where, despite a clear warning during the Flower Pot Interchange inauguration, vendors selling coconut and bananas set up their tables under the flyover.
He appealed to residents to respect the government’s efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure and help maintain its beauty for the benefit of all.