The Lusaka City Council (LCC) is set to embark on a major operation to demolish 150 illegal makeshift stalls at Lumumba Bus Station, a move aimed at addressing pressing environmental, health, and safety concerns. The affected structures, built directly over the main drainage system, have been identified as a significant contributor to environmental hazards, poor sanitation, and public safety risks.
Chinika Ward 11 Councillor, Masautso Ngoma, confirmed the planned demolition, which is scheduled to commence this Tuesday. According to Councillor Ngoma, the makeshift stalls were constructed by a local businessman without proper authorization, resulting in severe disruptions to the drainage infrastructure and contributing to flooding during the rainy season. He stressed that the decision to clear the area is in line with the council’s mandate to ensure public safety and maintain order within the city.
The demolition operation is part of a broader effort to restore order at Lumumba Bus Station, one of the busiest transport hubs in Lusaka, serving thousands of commuters daily. The council aims to use this opportunity to improve the station’s infrastructure, which will benefit over 2 million residents in the surrounding areas. By clearing the illegal structures, authorities hope to create a safer and more hygienic environment for both commuters and traders.
Councillor Ngoma emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly but was necessary to address the long-term challenges posed by the unauthorized structures. “We cannot continue to allow such structures to pose risks to public safety and hinder the proper functioning of critical infrastructure like drainage systems. The demolition will proceed as planned to ensure the area is cleared and prepared for necessary improvements,” he stated.
The council has also urged all traders operating illegally in the area to vacate voluntarily and seek alternative spaces provided within designated markets. Authorities are committed to ensuring that the demolition is conducted in a fair and orderly manner while minimizing disruptions to the daily activities at the bus station.
This initiative reflects the Lusaka City Council’s ongoing efforts to address urban management challenges and promote sustainable development within the city. Residents and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the move as a step toward better urban planning, while others have raised concerns about the relocation of displaced traders.
As the demolition date approaches, the council has assured the public that adequate measures will be in place to handle any potential resistance and ensure the operation is completed smoothly. This decisive action underscores the council’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Lusaka residents by prioritizing public safety, environmental sustainability, and efficient infrastructure development
By Peter Zunda Jr