Canalization works and route changes are disrupting traffic in Antananarivo. Fifteen taxi-be (public transport) lines are affected.
Ongoing canalization work in Antanimena has been disrupting traffic in several sectors of the capital since October 26, 2026. The restrictions and detours implemented are complicating travel for motorists and public transport users, particularly in Analakely, Antanimena, and Behoririka.
In Antanimena, certain streets are temporarily closed to allow construction to continue. Vehicles are being diverted to other routes, exacerbating traffic difficulties in a capital already facing daily congestion.
“Routes change regularly due to work in Soarano and Antanimena. It is becoming difficult to know which road to take. The traffic jams linked to these changes further extend travel times,” explains Ravaka Rabearimalala, who commutes regularly to the Analakely sector for work.
Fifteen taxi-be lines are affected by these modifications. Drivers must adapt their routes to the restrictions, while passengers are forced to allow more time for their journeys. Pedestrians are also facing difficulties in busy areas. In Behoririka, narrow sidewalks hinder movement and cause congestion. “The sidewalks are very narrow while many people use them. It looks like a pedestrian traffic jam,” notes Alain Augustin.
These disruptions also weigh on transport professionals. Henri Rakotoarison, a taxi driver in Antananarivo for forty-two years, has stopped operating one of his two vehicles due to a drop in revenue. According to him, the traffic jams discourage some of his clientele. “Previously, I earned about 50,000 ariary per day. Today, I barely reach 20,000 ariary. People hesitate to take taxis because of the traffic jams, but vehicle maintenance costs remain,” he testifies.
The driver hopes that the work will progress quickly so that traffic improves and his business recovers. In the meantime, users must cope with the detours and slowdowns. In its statement, the Urban Commune of Antananarivo reminds the public of the need to respect the instructions and signage put in place to facilitate traffic during the work.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-29 06:23:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/antananarivo-les-deviations-rallongent.html