The Urban Commune of Antananarivo (CUA) demolished eleven illegally erected structures in Ankatso yesterday. Built on public right-of-way, these buildings were obstructing traffic.
Eleven illegal structures were torn down yesterday morning in Ankatso. “Erected on public right-of-way, these buildings violate urban planning regulations,” stated Hery Lala Andriamanalinarisoa, Director of Urban Planning at the Urban Commune of Antananarivo, during the operation. This intervention by the CUA aims to reclaim public space and enforce regulations.
The structures in question were built without building permits on the University Road, an area designated as public right-of-way and strictly non-constructible. By encroaching on the road, they impeded both pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
“This is an illegal construction built on public right-of-way, which is a non-constructible zone. The owners had received warnings at the start of construction, but continued regardless. Although additional time was granted, we were eventually forced to proceed with demolition because the structure blocked traffic and was located in a restricted zone,” explained Hery Lala Andriamanalinarisoa.
Gilles Randrianatoandro, Director of Markets for the Urban Commune of Antananarivo, noted that the land in question was intended for a future market.
Raising Awareness
Beyond this intervention, the CUA is sounding the alarm regarding the surge in illegal constructions across the capital. They are currently stepping up awareness campaigns to remind citizens that all construction must be authorized by a permit. Illegal sites where owners persist despite warnings are being sealed off on a weekly basis.
This campaign is part of an effort to better organize urban space and preserve the public interest. In many neighborhoods of Antananarivo, anarchic urbanization continues to spread. Buildings are being constructed over drainage canals, while others ignore alignment plans and encroach on sidewalks. Such occupations complicate access for emergency vehicles and can prevent firefighters from intervening during fires. Green spaces, which are essential for neighborhood balance, are gradually disappearing in many fokontany.
Local residents are also denouncing the daily impact of this situation. “Sidewalks are increasingly occupied by kiosks and makeshift constructions. Pedestrians are forced to walk on the road, which is becoming dangerous,” says Léonard, a road user. Furthermore, this chaotic occupation reduces visibility for drivers and increases accident risks. “Control operations must continue to preserve public spaces and ensure user safety,” he added.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-04 06:13:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/amenagement-les-constructions-illicites.html