The installation of traffic lights, the redesign of intersections, and the clearing of sidewalks are gradually changing traffic in the capital. However, traffic jams persist on several axes, and compliance with traffic signals remains inconsistent.
The Urban Commune of Antananarivo (CUA) is intensifying efforts to better organize traffic and enhance user safety. Measures include installing traffic lights, reopening passages, and removing motorcycles parked on sidewalks. Their impact on daily commutes remains to be evaluated.
Traffic lights have been installed in Totombato and Antaninarenina. According to Aina Nomenjanahary Manampisoa Rakotoarison, CUA’s communications director, these installations are part of the traffic reorganization. However, compliance remains uneven, with some users ignoring signals, particularly motorcyclists.
In the Analakely sector, pedestrian safety is a major concern. Resident Rina Andriamiarison notes that while the improvements are positive, they are insufficient, as some drivers still fail to stop, creating accident risks. He advocates for increased awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement.
The CUA has also modified traffic flow at several intersections, such as Ambohijatovo and Anosy, to allow for more direct routes. Similar reorganizations have been carried out in Soarano, Mahamasina, and Anosizato regarding taxi-be (minibus) stops.
Despite these changes, traffic congestion remains significant during peak hours, particularly on routes connecting the suburbs to the city center. Commuters like Vonjy Rasoandriaka report that travel times remain long, often forcing them to leave earlier.
The CUA continues operations to clear sidewalks of motorcycles and unauthorized installations. In the third arrondissement, several motorcycles have been impounded for illegal parking. The municipality emphasizes that public space must be divided: sidewalks for pedestrians, roads for vehicles, and markets for merchants.
Furthermore, control operations are targeting illegal motorcycle racing in areas like Nanisana, Ankasina, and Ambohitrimanjaka, including document checks and sobriety tests. Pedestrian safety barriers have also been installed in the Ambohidahy tunnel, with similar measures planned for Ambanidia.
While these interventions are changing traffic organization, their long-term effectiveness in reducing travel times and accidents remains to be seen. The CUA has yet to specify the next steps and measures for the remaining congested areas.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-22 06:09:18 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/antananarivo-la-circulation-se.html