A massive cleanup and demolishing exercise took place at Bukom in the Accra metropolis on Saturday by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Special Taskforce.

It was an effort to protect the people against communicable diseases and social problems in the area.

Dr Alfred Oko Vanderpuije, Accra Metropolitan Chief Executive, who led in the exercise which was undertaken with the support of the Ga Traditional Council, cleaned choked gutters to pave way for the free flow of water.

Speaking to the media, he said, it was important for members of the community to observe clean environmental practices in their respective areas.

He noted that the pollution of the Odaw and Korle lagoons and other forms of indiscriminate dumping of refuse into the drains and littering, was still a major issue affecting sanitation in Accra, hence the need to leave no stone unturned to ensure that the metropolis comes back to its status.

Dr Vanderpuije said healthy sanitary condition was a shared responsibility of all, adding that; "waste management companies and the AMA alone could not keep the city clean if residents do not change their habits towards sanitation.

He said the demolishing exercise was to remove all unauthorised structures, which contributed to the excessive flooding in Accra leading to over 200 deaths.

He warned that the exercise was not going to be a nine-day wonder, but would continue until Accra becomes cleaner.

Nii Dodoo Nsaki III, Acting President of the Ga Traditional Council, who accompanied the Mayor in the exercise, said poor sanitation practices had destroyed the aesthetic beauty of the environment of Bukom causing major discomfort to residents and investors.

He said poor sanitation practices were responsible for diseases, according to Ghana Health Services and urged the Accra Mayor to continue with the demolishing exercise until the areas become clean.

Nii Dodoo Nsaki said; "we should not be disheartened since change takes time but I believe we can do it with the strong and dedicated leadership of Dr Vanderpuije."

Nii Ayibonte II, Gbese Mantse, who took part in the exercise, called on individuals to maintain a high standard of sanitation and hygiene at Bukom Square.

"Residents should ensure that their activities does not have adverse effect on the health of the people or the environment," he said.