Katondo Street Targeted As Lusaka Council Begins Second Phase Of Operation Clear Path
The Lusaka City Council has begun Phase Two of Operation Clear Path, with Katondo Street among the areas targeted in a renewed effort to restore order, cleanliness and public safety in the Central Business District.
The operation is targeting illegal street vending, unauthorised bus operations and other activities being conducted outside designated areas.
Lusaka Mayor Chitambala Mwewa said the second phase will focus on decongesting the CBD while consolidating the gains made during Phase One.
Mr. Mwewa said the Council will work with the Road Transport and Safety Agency and the Zambia Police Service to relocate buses operating from unauthorised locations to designated bus stations.
He said the measure is intended to improve traffic flow, enhance public safety and create a more organised public transport system.
The Mayor also announced intensified enforcement on Katondo Street following concerns from established businesses over street traders occupying shopfronts and access points.
Mr. Mwewa said the Council is also concerned about the sale of mobile phones and electronic devices along the street, amid longstanding concerns over the legitimacy of some products and reports that some items could be stolen property.
He said all business activities in the CBD must be conducted from lawful and designated trading places, adding that the Council will enforce the law against illegal traders and other forms of disorder.
The Council has also warned against displaying vehicles for sale along Katondo Street, as the area is not designated for vehicle sales.
Meanwhile, mobile traders selling fruits, vegetables and other goods from wheelbarrows have been directed to register and operate from recognised trading centres, including Soweto Market, City Market and Simon Mwewa Market.
Zambia Police Service Public Relations Officer Godfrey Chilabi said the Police will work with the Council throughout the operation to enforce the law for the benefit of the public.