The Cross River Government says it has banned the activities of roadside mechanics and street traders in Calabar metropolis effective Oct. 31.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr Bassey Mensah, made the disclosure during an on-the-spot inspection of business areas, erosion sites, and other locations in Calabar on Monday.
Mensah said that the activities of roadside technicians and traders were obstructing human and vehicular movement in the city.
The commissioner also said that the activities of roadside technicians and traders had caused serious environmental degradation in Calabar City.
Newsmen report that during the inspection, Mensah visited Kings Street, White House, Bedwell, Punch, Victor Akan and adjoining streets.
He told roadside mechanics and traders operating in the areas to relocate their operations to the designated places.
“There is the possibility of exposure to harmful chemicals, we need to collectively protect public health, and restore environmental order,” he said.
Mensah said that there was critical need for improved sanitation in order to create a safe environment for the residents.
The commissioner expressed the government’s commitment to address the challenge of environmental degradation triggered by roadside workshops and street trading.
He said that the state government would collaborate with the Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project to tackle the matter.
Mensah said that the inspection was part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to restore a clean and healthy environment in the state through improved sanitation, environmental regulations enforcement, and sustained public sensitisation.
Chief Ndem Effiong, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Automobile Technician Regulatory Department, said that there was need to separate vehicle sales from mechanic operations.
He expressed concern over increasing environmental degradation arising from mechanics operating along the streets.
