Flood-damaged Aflao Market road prompts temporary intervention as calls grow for permanent fix

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The deteriorating condition of the L-shaped road at the Aflao Market, worsened by Monday’s heavy rains, has reignited concerns over the state of infrastructure at one of the municipality’s busiest trading centres, where flooding continues to disrupt economic activity and endanger road users.Following the circulation of videos on social media showing the damaged road and floodwaters inundating sections of the market, businessman and philanthropist Akonta Felix Akakpo- Togbui Tenuvi II has announced a temporary intervention to improve access while urging authorities to pursue a permanent solution.In a post on his Facebook page, Mr Akakpo said the condition of the road and the flooding had compelled him to act.“Videos circulating online showing the deteriorated condition of the L-shaped road at Aflao Market, coupled with flooding that affected sections of the market after Monday’s downpour, have compelled me to intervene. My intervention is aimed at reducing the strain on drivers, pedestrians, and the market women who use the road daily,” he wrote.As part of the intervention, he said he is providing 20 truckloads of laterite gravel to improve market access.According to the Facebook post, 12 truckloads will be used on the L-shaped stretch around the market. In comparison, the remaining eight truckloads will be used to fill priority potholes at other locations within the Ketu South Municipality.Mr Akakpo, who has an engineering background, said the emergency works should not be mistaken for a permanent solution.“From an engineering perspective, the market requires large-scale redevelopment to address persistent flooding and meet present-day standards,” he stated.He described the gravelling exercise as an interim measure pending action by the appropriate authorities.“This is a temporary fix pending a permanent solution from the relevant authorities. Markets across the municipality still fall short of modern standards, and we must take proactive steps to upgrade them and strengthen the local economy for all,” he added.The recurring flooding at the Aflao Market has become a major concern for traders and commuters, particularly during the rainy season, as poor drainage and deteriorating roads continue to hamper business activities and make movement difficult.Mr Akakpo is calling for collective action to improve public infrastructure.“ Change begins when we step up with practical solutions, no matter how small.”