ANAMBRA MOVES TO RECLAIM ONITSHA MAIN MARKET, DEMOLISHES STRUCTURES ON JOHNSON STREET

By Claribel Udah

The Anambra State Government has intensified enforcement of physical planning regulations at Onitsha Main Market with the demolition of structures along Johnson Street.

The exercise, carried out on AUg. 15 by officials of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, targeted structures identified as contravening approved physical planning and development requirements.

The ministry said the enforcement was aimed at reclaiming improperly utilised spaces, improving the physical environment of the market and ensuring that developments within the commercial hub conformed with approved planning standards.

It said the exercise was also part of the government’s broader efforts to restore order and support the ongoing regeneration of the market.

According to the ministry, the action would help create a safer and more organised environment for traders, customers and other users of the market.

It stressed that the successful regeneration of the market required strict compliance with physical planning regulations as the government works to improve its appearance, functionality and overall organisation.

The ministry urged traders, developers, property owners and other stakeholders operating within the market to obtain the necessary approvals and comply with planning requirements to avoid enforcement action.

The state government said sustained enforcement and compliance would remain critical to achieving its objective of creating a cleaner, safer and better planned commercial environment in Onitsha.

Claribel Udah is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State