�Rapture� Decongestion Hits Kumasi

Akin to the much expectant biblical rapture, authorities of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) took to the streets yesterday to clear hawkers and other petty traders who have taken over pavements and open areas. Such exercises are always undertaken with prior notification and a budget made public but this time they have decided to take those recalcitrant hawkers unawares. KMA taskforce and strong Police and Military contingent were in the thick of affairs, ensuring that the city particularly the business district is rid of artificial human and vehicular traffic caused by hawkers. Because of its unannounced nature, duration of the exercise is unknown and the city authorities are also tight lipped on it. The recalcitrant hawkers were seen running helter-skelter in order not to fall into the web of the taskforce. Though afraid of the situation, some were however seen in groups, saying that the exercise will not stand the test of time. To them, a lot has gone down the drain as successive mayors have failed to hold on to similar exercises. They claim the exercise is only being used by the new mayor to announce his presence adding it will only be a 9 day wonder. A check in the afternoon was nothing different as some bold ones were back going about their normal business. The Enquirer is however monitoring with keen interest and will keep readers updated about the sustenance or otherwise of the exercise.