In a decisive move to reclaim public spaces and restore order in the Delta State capital, the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has launched a major enforcement operation against illegal roadside structures and street trading activities across Asaba.
The exercise, which commenced last week, is part of a comprehensive urban renewal and environmental sanitation drive aimed at improving road safety, easing traffic congestion, and preserving the aesthetic image of Asaba as a modern capital city.
The operation is being carried out by the DSCTDA Task Force under the directive of the Director-General, Mr. Patrick Ukah.
Key locations affected by the enforcement include Akpu Junction, Marble Hill Junction, the Arcade/Ogbeogonogo Market area, Maryam Babangida Way, Okpanam Road (NTA axis), Okpanam Road by the State House of Assembly, Inter-Bau Roundabout, Ibusa Road/Slot, and the Nnebisi Road corridor, where illegal trading and makeshift structures had taken over road setbacks, walkways, and drainage channels
.
Speaking on the exercise, Mr. Ukah said the operation was long overdue, noting that the unchecked spread of roadside trading had posed serious safety risks to motorists and pedestrians while undermining traffic flow and environmental standards in the capital territory.
He stressed that the Agency would no longer tolerate acts that deface the city or endanger lives, adding that the enforcement was not targeted at individuals but at restoring sanity and enforcing compliance with existing environmental and traffic regulations.
The Director-General advised affected traders to relocate to government-approved and designated markets, warning that the operation would be sustained and extended to other areas if necessary.
Beyond the removal of illegal structures, DSCTDA also intensified routine sweeping and sanitation of major road corridors, with special focus on the Mammy Market/Traffic Light axis, as part of efforts to maintain cleanliness and prevent the return of illegal activities.
The sanitation exercise was supervised by the Head of Environment, DSCTDA, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, who said the Agency has deployed monitoring teams to ensure continued compliance and maintain the gains recorded from the operation.
He called on residents, traders, and commuters to cooperate with the Agency by obeying environmental laws and keeping their surroundings clean.
Mr. Ukah reaffirmed DSCTDA’s commitment to building a clean, safe, and orderly capital territory, emphasizing that a well-organized Asaba is essential to the image, growth, and development of Delta State.
