RSG prohibits the use of public open space for parking, retail and illegal buildings

The Rivers State Department of Physical Planning and Urban Development has announced a total ban on the use of government-sanctioned public open spaces along major roads and streets in Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpora and its environs for parking, trading and erection of illegal structures.

Urban Development Commissioner Evans Bipi said in a statement Wednesday.

He said it was unfortunate that the activities of some commercial vehicle operators and traders continue to impede the free flow of traffic on our roads, resulting in traffic congestion with consequent loss of man-hours on a daily basis and socio-economic implications.

He expressed dissatisfaction with the proliferation of illegal structures and shacks along the main roads and streets of Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor as they blight the physical landscape of the state and undermine the urban development initiatives of the Governor, His Excellency Sir Siminalaya Fubara.

He vowed to strictly enforce the ban on the use of unauthorized public spaces for such illegal activities, while expressing his determination to rid the state of the menace and restore Port Harcourt to its Garden City status.

He warned the operators of illegal car parks to immediately move and operate within the designated car parks as failure to do so will attract serious action by the government against them in accordance with the law.