The District Magistrate Court in Nandom and more than 40 shops are set to be demolished to pave the way for the construction of the government’s flagship 24-hour market project.
In anticipation of the demolition, affected shop owners have begun vacating their premises. Over the past few days, roofing sheets, wooden structures, shelves and other materials have been removed from many of the shops as owners race to salvage their property.
Officials of the Volta River Authority (VRA) have also disconnected electricity supply to the affected shops, signalling that preparations for the demolition are at an advanced stage.
The exercise has left some traders stranded, with many uncertain about where to relocate their businesses. Several affected shop owners say the cost of renting alternative commercial spaces in Nandom has increased, making relocation difficult.
As of the time this report was filed, the roofing sheets and other valuables at the District Magistrate Court had not yet been removed, although the facility is also expected to be affected by the demolition exercise.
The proposed 24-hour market forms part of the government’s flagship programme aimed at promoting round-the-clock commercial activity, creating jobs and boosting local economic development. However, concerns remain among some affected traders over relocation arrangements and the availability of affordable business spaces.
