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The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) and China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) have announced plans to carry out a clearance exercise along the Right-of-Way of the Freetown-Masiaka Highway to remove unauthorized structures.
In a joint public notice, the two institutions confirmed that the operation will start from Wellington in Freetown through the highway leading to Masiaka. The reported that an increasing number of individuals have erected makeshift and permanent concrete structures, median divider crossings, and access ramps to private properties within the road reserve without SLRA approval.
The Freetown–Masiaka Highway was designed to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians, the notice stated. SLRA said the unauthorized developments pose safety hazards and could damage road infrastructure or hinder future expansion, as well as the installation of utilities such as water, electricity, and communication networks.
SLRA reminded the public that it is legally mandated to manage Sierra Leone’s national road network and has the authority to act against unlawful encroachment in road reserves.
In collaboration with relevant stakeholders and national security forces, SLRA and CRSG said they will begin a comprehensive clearing and sanitation exercise along the highway’s Right-of-Way with effect from 29 June 2026. The operation aims to remove unauthorized structures and restore the road reserve.
The authorities urged affected persons to cease construction and voluntarily remove unapproved structures before the exercise begins. They warned that failure to comply could result in enforcement action, including demolition.
SLRA called on the public to cooperate with the exercise and comply with regulations governing road reserves, stating that such cooperation is necessary to protect public investments and maintain safe transportation.
