Rehabilitation work on the Mahavavy ford, located on National Road 6 (RN6), is making significant progress, aimed at facilitating heavy vehicle passage and streamlining the transport of goods between the northern regions of Madagascar. The ford was demolished following the completion of the modular bridge over the river to prevent overflow during flood seasons.
Currently, the modular bridge is only accessible to vehicles weighing less than twenty tons, forcing heavy goods vehicles to seek alternative solutions to cross the river. The load restrictions imposed to date have continued to impact economic activities, particularly for freight transporters. These limitations have often led to delays in product delivery and increased logistical costs for carriers operating between the Diana and Sava regions.
To meet the needs of economic operators and transporters, preparations are underway at Mahavavy for the return of heavy vehicles. Ongoing works are primarily focused on improving the structure’s load-bearing capacity. Once completed, trucks exceeding twenty tons are expected to be able to use the crossing with greater safety and reliability.
On-site, the construction of the ford is progressing steadily, and the structure is beginning to take a concrete shape.
Beyond the technical aspects, this ford represents a crucial issue for local and regional mobility.
Although the work is not yet finished, the observed progress suggests an imminent improvement in traffic conditions. Users are now hoping that the project will be completed as soon as possible, ensuring that the facility can fully fulfill its purpose.
The project is currently entering its final phase. The remaining work mainly involves setting up openings to ensure proper water flow, as well as completing the riprap embankment for the diversion route.
According to Rivo Roland Randrianarijaona, the Regional Director of Public Works, the entire project is scheduled for completion before June 26. Once finished, load restrictions will be lifted; trucks, including those exceeding twenty tons, will be able to cross the structure once again, and the Mahavavy ford will remain accessible to all vehicles until the arrival of the next rainy season.
Raheriniaina
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-19 11:30:02 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/antsiranana-le-passage-gue-de-mahavavy.html