Traders operating along the roadside and within the main lorry station in the Suhum Municipality have been given a one-week ultimatum to vacate the area, as the Suhum Municipal Assembly prepares to roll out a major decongestion exercise.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Lydia Ohenewa Sarah, announced that the operation will officially commence on Monday, July 7, 2025.

The initiative aims to clear illegal structures, remove traders encroaching on pavements, and restore order in the township to ensure smooth vehicular and pedestrian movement.

In an interview with Accra FM/CTV reporter Apelete Kofi-Michel, the MCE stressed that the exercise will be conducted in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service in Suhum. She reaffirmed her determination to see the operation through, saying she would not be swayed by resistance or threats from affected individuals.

“We are committed to bringing order to Suhum. The situation at the station and along the roads has become unbearable. We cannot allow the activities of a few individuals to disrupt the safety and flow of the entire town,” Madam Lydia said.

The Assembly has advised all affected traders to voluntarily relocate to designated trading areas before the deadline to avoid forceful eviction.

Drivers at the Suhum main lorry station have voiced their frustration over the persistent congestion, attributing the problem to traders who occupy the roadsides and station entrances.

According to the MCE, many market women have abandoned the central market in favour of the roadside near the station, further compounding the challenge.

Some of the traders, however, say they are ready to comply with the directive and move to the new locations provided by the Assembly.

“We are ready to move if the new place is good and accessible to customers,” one market woman said.