Madina Old Zonal Council Market demolished over structural safety concerns

The La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly has embarked on the demolition of the old Zonal Council Market at Madina following serious concerns regarding the structural integrity of the building.

The exercise follows a structural integrity test conducted on the facility, which reportedly recorded readings as low as 11 Newtons per square millimeter (N/mm²), raising immediate red flags about the safety of traders, shoppers, and other users of the market. The Municipal Engineer for the assembly, Engineer Mohammed Danjumah Ahmed, stated that the demolition had become necessary to forestall any potential disasters associated with the deteriorating structure.

Although some traders had previously resisted the move over concerns about their livelihoods, many have since acquiesced, calling on the assembly to ensure the prompt reconstruction of the market. Some affected traders told the media that engagement with the assembly helped them understand the safety imperatives behind the demolition, emphasizing that their primary focus is now on how quickly authorities can provide a replacement facility.

The traders noted that the demolition has disrupted their daily business operations, forcing some to vend along nearby roadsides while awaiting a permanent solution.

They appealed to the assembly to prioritize the reconstruction process to mitigate their hardships and restore normal commercial activities.

“We don't have a problem with the demolition. Our only fear is whether the reconstruction of the market will be swift so that we can return to business,” some traders remarked, urging authorities to prevent unnecessary delays that could jeopardize their livelihoods.

In response, Engineer Mohammed Danjumah Ahmed assured that the reconstruction would be executed under the assembly's planned 24-hour market project. He explained that the redevelopment aims to deliver a modern, secure facility to accommodate traders and stimulate economic growth within the municipality.

Furthermore, the Municipal Engineer assured that verified traders whose records are on file with the assembly will be prioritized for shop allocations in the new market.

While the assurance offers a measure of relief, the immediate priority for the displaced traders remains the swift delivery of a replacement market to restore their businesses and secure their economic future.