Bicycle taxis are increasingly parking along the roadsides in the capital. The Urban Commune of Antananarivo (CUA) has reiterated that this mode of transport is not authorized to carry passengers.
Bicycle taxis are venturing into the streets of Antananarivo in growing numbers. Taking advantage of the worsening traffic jams in the capital, some drivers do not hesitate to transport passengers to the city center, taking detours through Isotry and Tsaralalàna.
While some peripheral communes around Antananarivo allow them to operate within their jurisdictions, this is not the case for the capital. In Ampitatafika, Andoharanofotsy, and Anosizato, bicycle taxis are permitted to work within their municipal limits. However, in Antananarivo, this mode of transport remains prohibited. This weekend, in a statement, the Urban Commune of Antananarivo (CUA) reminded the public that “bicycle taxis, cycle-rickshaws, and tricycles are not authorized to engage in passenger transport activities within the CUA territory.”
Despite this ban, bicycle taxis continue to circulate in several districts of the capital. “The Anosizato-Anosy route costs nearly 1,000 or 1,500 ariary,” says Anita, a regular user of this transport.
However, this growing presence is not universally welcomed. For some road users, bicycle taxis contribute to further complicating traffic. “They do not always master the traffic rules and can make unpredictable maneuvers. This increases the risk of traffic jams and accidents,” testifies Ralambomanana, a motorist.
For the drivers, on the other hand, this activity represents primarily a source of income. “It is our livelihood. We transport clients to earn money and provide for our families’ needs,” explains Tojo Rabefarihy, a bicycle taxi driver.
For users, the assessment is more nuanced. Faced with endless traffic jams in the capital, some consider bicycle taxis a practical solution to move around more quickly. “When cars are stuck for hours, the bicycle taxi allows us to reach our destination faster at a much more affordable rate,” adds Anita.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-22 06:12:28 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/circulation-les-taxis-velo-envahissent.html