Accra Mayor Orders Temporary Closure of Kaneshie Footbridges Over Serious Structural Defects
The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has directed the immediate and temporary closure of the Kaneshie footbridges following an inspection that revealed critical structural defects.
The directive, issued on Wednesday, aims to protect lives and allow for urgent repair works on the deteriorating infrastructure.
Addressing traders and commuters at the site, the Mayor urged all occupants and users of the footbridges to vacate the area immediately to facilitate renovation. He emphasised that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) would not compromise on public safety, especially in light of recent building and structural failures recorded in parts of the city.
He warned that individuals who defy the closure order or attempt to use the bridges unlawfully would face legal consequences, and called for full public cooperation during the repair period.
In an interview with the media, Mayor Allotey disclosed that the Assembly would deploy its Internally Generated Funds (IGF) to commence preliminary works while awaiting additional financial support from the central government.
According to him, sections of the footbridges have significantly deteriorated, with exposed metal reinforcements and damaged concrete posing an imminent danger to users.
The Mayor also encouraged residents to report unsafe buildings and structures within their communities, assuring that authorities would act swiftly to enforce compliance with safety standards.
As part of broader efforts to address infrastructure risks, he announced plans to collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives across Accra to conduct joint inspections in areas including Adenta, School Junction, Dansoman, and Agbogbloshie.
The coordinated exercise, to be led by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, will target unsafe structures, with non-compliant developments facing possible demolition.
The closure of the Kaneshie footbridges is expected to cause temporary inconvenience to pedestrians and traders in the busy commercial area, but officials say the safety of the public remains the top priority.
Source: Statement and on-site inspection by Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey (April 2, 2026)
