The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has given traders occupying unauthorised bus stops across the metropolis 48 hours to cease trading and vacate the locations ahead of a planned enforcement exercise.
The directive comes amid growing pressure from commercial transport operators, who have threatened a nationwide withdrawal of services over the continued occupation of designated bus stops and pedestrian walkways by traders.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the Assembly said the directive followed concerns raised by commercial drivers over obstructions at designated stopping points, which affect the movement of vehicles and pedestrians and pose risks to public safety.
“The directive follows concerns raised by commercial drivers over the obstruction of designated stopping points, which impedes the movement of vehicles and pedestrians and poses risks to public safety,” the statement said.
The AMA explained that traders occupying bus stops force commuters to board and alight from vehicles at unsafe locations, increasing the risk of road accidents and contributing to traffic congestion.
Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has already initiated enforcement measures, including the removal of traders occupying unauthorised spaces at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Achimota and parts of the Central Business District (CBD).
The Assembly is now urging hawkers and traders to immediately vacate designated bus stops and refrain from returning to the affected locations.
It warned that persons who disregard the directive would face enforcement action in accordance with the Assembly’s by-laws.
“The AMA cautions hawkers against returning to cleared locations, as the reoccupation of bus stops will attract further enforcement action including prosecution,” the statement added.
The directive follows weeks of complaints by commercial transport operators over traders occupying designated bus stops, lorry terminals and pedestrian walkways across the country.
On October 15, transport unions gave government and local authorities a seven-day ultimatum to clear the affected spaces, citing disruptions to passenger pick-ups and drop-offs and safety risks.
The concerns intensified ahead of the introduction of the TraffiTech-GH automated traffic enforcement system on November 1, with drivers arguing that they could be penalised for stopping outside designated areas when traders had occupied the approved stopping points.
On November 2, five transport unions announced plans to withdraw commercial transport services nationwide on November 4, accusing the authorities of failing to address their concerns.
The unions included the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana, True Drivers Union, Ghana Committed Drivers Association and Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana.
The AMA’s latest directive signals a response to the concerns over trading activities at bus stops, as the Assembly seeks to restore order and ensure the proper use of public spaces.
It reaffirmed its commitment to “maintaining public order, promoting road safety and ensuring the orderly use of public spaces across the metropolis.”
