An operation to clear vendors occupying the sidewalks around the Scama market was carried out last Saturday. Located between Ankilifaly and Betania, the market sits along the road connecting these two sub-districts. This recently renovated road is now strictly off-limits to vendors and merchants. The Atsimo-Andrefana region and the urban commune of Toliara have installed small traffic islands to separate the two directions of traffic, toward and from Betania.
“However, these traffic islands have turned into stalls for merchants who occupy the area illegally, especially in the evening. Fishmongers use the sidewalk, which also serves as a traffic separator. Vehicles and cycle-rickshaws can no longer circulate normally. There are constant, massive traffic jams,” emphasized Patrick Manasoa, the second deputy mayor of Toliara, who led the operation.
Merchants refuse to move inside the market, citing a lack of space and lighting. Yet, for several weeks, the sidewalks and spaces not designated for commerce have been occupied day and night by vendors. Over the past two municipal terms, the Scama market has struggled to be properly reorganized. Filth prevails, especially since the recent heavy rains that hit the ‘City of the Sun’. The designated areas for each product category are no longer respected.
“It is impossible to set foot there. There is mud everywhere—black mud—along with stagnant water that has been there for months. It is too dirty for us to go there,” said a mother who had come to do her shopping.
MiotiSoa Mare
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-23 08:00:03 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/assainissement-le-marche-de-scama.html