Hawker returns to old spot under newly commissioned Flowerpot interchange

Just a day after the commissioning of the Flowerpot Interchange in Accra, a young lady, Sahadatu Seidu, has resumed selling under the structure.

The GH¢677 million interchange, commissioned on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, by President Nana Akufo-Addo, aims to ease traffic and enhance connectivity in Greater Accra.

Sahadatu explained that she had operated at the location before construction began and felt justified in returning after the project’s completion. “I have only returned to my old selling point,” she remarked.

At the commissioning event, the Greater Accra Regional Minister cautioned the public against erecting kiosks or containers near the interchange, emphasizing the need to maintain the area’s functionality and aesthetics.

Constructed by China Railway No. 5 Engineering Ghana Limited, the Flowerpot Interchange features an 802-metre dual-carriageway viaduct over the motorway and Spintex Road’s Flowerpot Roundabout. It is designed to improve traffic flow and enhance connectivity between key areas such as Cantonments, Burma Camp, East Legon, Spintex, and Tema.

The scope of work includes:

Ramps and slip roads for smoother travel.
A ramp from Shiashie onto the viaduct heading towards Airport Hills.
Another ramp from the viaduct onto the motorway towards Tema.

Public Concerns

While the interchange promises significant relief for commuters, Sahadatu’s presence underscores the challenge of balancing urban development with the livelihoods of small traders.

Her return raises questions about the enforcement of regulations and the coexistence of modern infrastructure with informal economic activities.

As the interchange begins to serve its purpose of easing traffic, city authorities face the additional task of ensuring compliance with regulations to safeguard its efficiency and long-term impact.

source: Citi Newsroom