By Nelson Manneh
Musa Cham, the National Assembly member representing Serrekunda, has accused the central government of collecting parking fees and road taxes without reinvesting the funds into infrastructure improvements, exacerbating urban congestion and safety concerns.
Cham condemned the government’s approach, arguing that while revenue is generated, the absence of reinvestment has led to worsening urban conditions.
“Every corner in our community has become a garage or car park, while the streets are inundated with vendors from whom local councils collect daily fees,” he said.
The lawmaker contended that the failure to allocate these funds for road and parking infrastructure is not only negligent but also contributes to urban disorder.
Cham also criticized the Minister of Local Government, Amat NK Bah, for what he described as an insufficient response to parliamentary inquiries on the matter. “We are still waiting for your government to take concrete action to clear the roads. While it may take longer than anticipated, you have clearly identified key issues that demand urgent attention,” Cham told Bah.
Cham also addressed the recent fire at Sandika, a market near the Serrekunda Health Center, calling for a thorough investigation into its causes and broader reforms to enhance market safety.
“This area has been a longstanding concern in my deliberations at the National Assembly,” he said. “Without proper infrastructure to support trade, investment, and employment, the area’s potential as The Gambia’s commercial hub will be undermined.”
Cham urged authorities to conduct a comprehensive study on the fire’s causes and implement preventive measures, including reassessing market stall construction.
“The way the stalls are built at Sandika needs to be reevaluated to prevent future disasters,” he said.
His remarks reflect growing frustration over urban congestion, infrastructure decay, and public safety issues in Serrekunda, the country’s busiest urban center.
