Accra Mayor, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has ordered the temporary closure of the Kaneshie footbridges following an inspection that revealed significant structural deterioration. The directive, issued on Wednesday, is aimed at safeguarding lives while urgent repair works are initiated.
During the inspection, the Mayor urged traders and commuters occupying the bridges to vacate the area immediately to allow renovation works to proceed. He emphasized that the Assembly would not compromise public safety, especially in light of recent structural failures across the city. “Anyone who defies safety protocols or attempts to use the bridge unlawfully will face legal consequences,” he warned.
In a separate media interview, Hon. Allotey explained that preliminary works would be funded through the Assembly’s Internally Generated Funds (IGF) while awaiting additional support from the central government. He described the situation as urgent, noting that sections of the bridge had deteriorated severely, with exposed reinforcements visible due to broken concrete.
The Mayor also called on residents to report unsafe buildings and developments in their communities, assuring swift responses to enforce engineering standards. He announced plans to collaborate with other Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across Accra to conduct joint inspections in areas including Adenta, School Junction, Dansoman, and Agbogbloshie. The coordinated effort, spearheaded by Greater Accra Regional Minister Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, will target unsafe structures citywide, with non-compliant developments facing demolition where necessary.
Accompanying the Mayor, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ablekuma Central, Hon. Frank Nkansah, highlighted that persistent occupation of the footbridge by traders had hindered maintenance over the years, leading to rust and damage of critical components. Engr. James Oduro Amoo-Gottfried, Director of the Department of Urban Roads, confirmed that the structure required urgent attention and supported the decision to close it. He added that temporary alternative crossing points would be created along the median of the Dr. Busia Highway to ensure pedestrian safety during the repair period.
Mayor Allotey reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a resilient and sustainable city, stressing that safety, infrastructure improvement, and strict enforcement of regulations remain central to Accra’s development agenda.
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