NEWS
UCDA FINALIZES RELOCATION OF ISI-GATE TRADERS TO AFARA RELIEF MARKET, MOVES TO DECONGEST UMUAHIA CITY CENTRE
The Abia State Government has stepped up its coordinated urban renewal and city decongestion efforts, with decisive actions now underway to restore order, improve traffic flow, and enhance the aesthetic outlook of Umuahia, the state capital.
Briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Dr. Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Kanu, disclosed that the Umuahia Capital Development Authority has concluded all necessary arrangements for the relocation of traders currently operating at the congested Isi Gate axis to the newly developed Relief Market located at Afara.
According to the Commissioner, the relocation exercise represents a strategic component of the administration’s broader plan to modernize the capital city, eliminate street trading, and create a more organized commercial environment that aligns with global urban standards.
He explained that the government has taken deliberate steps to ensure a smooth transition for all affected stakeholders.
As part of these preparations, compensation payments to all verified landowners impacted by the development have been fully settled, underscoring the government’s commitment to fairness and due process.
In addition, critical infrastructure at the new market site has reached advanced stages, with the perimeter fencing already completed to guarantee security, while construction work on the retaining wall is actively ongoing to reinforce the facility.
In a further move to completely decongest the Isi Gate corridor, the state government has also finalized plans to relocate commercial transport operators currently stationed at Okigwe Park to a newly constructed ultra-modern bus terminal scheduled for commissioning in the coming days. This transition is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve commuter experience within the city centre.
Consequently, traders operating at Isi Gate will be temporarily moved to the Okigwe Park area as an interim measure, pending the full completion and operational readiness of the Afara Relief Market. This phased approach is designed to maintain business continuity while ensuring the orderly implementation of the relocation policy.
The coordinated relocation of both traders and transport operators signals a bold and structured effort by the Alex Otti-led administration to redefine urban living in Umuahia, positioning the city as a model of orderliness, functionality, and sustaina
ble development.