The demolition of structures at the Tema Newtown fish processing enclave has entered its second day, leaving dozens of fishmongers and residents without their businesses and prompting calls for government support to help affected families rebuild their lives.
The exercise, being carried out by the Tema East Sub-Metro, forms part of a sanitation campaign aimed at improving environmental conditions at the coastal community.
Authorities say inspections revealed that fish was being processed close to overflowing refuse dumps, while open defecation along the shoreline posed a serious health risk to residents and consumers.
Although the assembly insists the exercise is necessary to protect public health and restore sanitation, many traders say they have been left devastated after losing their only source of income.
Speaking to the media, one affected resident, who hails from Winneba but has lived in Tema Newtown for years, said the demolition had destroyed the family business his mother relied on to support the household.
He explained that he had helped his mother process fish since his school days and now fears the family may have no choice but to return to their hometown in search of a fresh start.
He appealed to the authorities to provide relief for those displaced, arguing that the sanitation problems were largely caused by poor waste management rather than the activities of fish processors.
According to him, refuse containers at the site often remain full for several days before they are emptied, leaving residents with few options for proper waste disposal.
Another trader criticised the manner in which the operation was conducted, claiming many occupants were not given adequate notice before the demolition began.
She said several people were away when the exercise started and were unable to rescue their belongings despite pleading for more time.
The trader added that the latest development has worsened the hardship facing many families who are still recovering from recent floods that affected parts of the community.
The demolition exercise began on Tuesday, July 28, and also led to the arrest of several individuals accused of engaging in open defecation.
