GPRTU Vice Chairman raises alarm over pavement encroachment in Ahanta West.

The Vice Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) in the Ahanta District, Nana Asaweah III, has voiced deep concern over the growing encroachment of pedestrian pavements in the area, describing the situation as a major safety threat to residents.

Speaking on the WestCoast MORNING show, Nana Asaweah III warned that walking beside roads in the municipality has become more dangerous than being in a vehicle, due to what he describes as the 'takeover' of pavements by street vendors and makeshift shops.

“Now even when you are walking beside our roads, it's riskier than sitting in a car itself,” he said.

“All our pavements in Ahanta West have been full of stores. It's very sad that even the foreigners are taking over our pavements now in Ahanta West.”

His remarks spotlights a growing problem in the municipality, where many side walks are no longer accessible to pedestrians, forcing them to walk dangerously close to moving traffic. The situation has sparked safety concerns among commuters and residents alike.

He lamented the lack of enforcement by local authorities and called for immediate action to reclaim public walkways, which are critical for pedestrian safety. According to him, the unchecked occupation of pavements not only disrupts foot traffic but also puts lives at constant risk especially children, the elderly, and the disabled.

Nana Asaweah III emphasized that while economic activity and informal trade are vital, they should not come at the cost of public safety and order.

“There must be a balance,” he stressed. “People can earn a living without endangering others. It’s time for the Assembly to act.”

His comments come amid growing calls from transport unions and community leaders for stricter enforcement of municipal by-laws and a more sustainable approach to managing urban space in Ahanta West.