Linda Ocloo launches ‘operation free traffic’, ahead of Christmas festivities
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has launched a region-wide traffic management operation, “Operation Free Traffic,” with a stern warning that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) who fail to enforce the directives will face sanctions.
Launching the initiative on Thursday, December 4, the Regional Minister said the exercise is designed to tackle the intense human and vehicular congestion that typically grips the capital before, during, and after the Christmas season.
She directed the Accra and Tema Police Commands, the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), and all Assemblies to step up patrols, strictly enforce traffic regulations, and deploy personnel to major congestion hotspots such as markets, malls, busy intersections, and entertainment centres.
Under the new measures, abandoned vehicles obstructing traffic will be towed, with owners facing a GHC 2,000 fine.
Commercial drivers, traders, event organisers, and club owners have also been cautioned against activities that impede traffic flow.
Assemblies have been further instructed to clear choked drains, clear bushy medians, and maintain sanitation, or be held accountable.
The stakeholder meeting brought together district and divisional police commanders, the MTTD, MMDCEs, and other officials to strategise ahead of the festive rush.
Linda Ocloo also urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support efforts to ensure a safe and smooth holiday season, stressing that the region will no longer tolerate indiscriminate parking, unauthorised street trading, or obstruction of pavements and roadways.
“I have directed the Assemblies to ensure public spaces are kept clean. Following a meeting with the President, all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies have been instructed to enforce strict compliance.
They must clear all choked drains and improve sanitation within their jurisdictions. Any MMDCE who fails will be sanctioned accordingly,” she added.