Only in Madagascar would people celebrate the state of the Antananarivo-Antsirabe road, despite the fact that once you leave Ambatolampy and before reaching Antsirabe, the road is in a deplorable state. It is a pity that the ‘Rendez-Vous des Pêcheurs’ restaurant has succumbed to the Covid-19 pandemic and the isolation of Ambatolampy from Antananarivo, as the first 70 kilometers now take an hour and a half, just like in the past.
Entering Ihazolava, one might think the numerous potholes are being preserved as historical monuments. From Ihazolava to Ambohimandroso, travelers are forced to swallow dust, and vehicles struggle over uneven, poorly finished surfaces. In the town of Ambohimandroso, the road is a constant mess, riddled with deep, self-expanding potholes.
Exiting Ambohimandroso, the road is full of traps; unless you know them by heart, you risk damaging your vehicle’s front axle. The stretch between Ampitatafika and Ilempona is one of the few that could actually be called a ‘National Road’.
Regarding the Ilempona-Ianaborona-Morarano section, one wonders which construction company was entrusted with this work, as people have been breathing dust for two solid years. Furthermore, the transitions between asphalt and dirt roads are like climbing stairs. Between Sambaina and Antsoantany, the road is somewhat passable, despite the small crossing over the railway and the 100-meter stretch at Antsampanimahazo that never seems to be finished.
Finally, approaching Antsirabe from Andranomanelatra, instead of a warm welcome, you are greeted by half a kilometer of road designed to destroy whatever is left of your car. The gravel and debris ruin silent blocks, tie rods, and shock absorbers, leaving vehicle owners cursing the state of public infrastructure. Two years ago, while not perfect, the Antananarivo-Antsirabe road was at least bearable. It is incomprehensible that in any country other than Madagascar, a 170-kilometer road remains unfinished after two years of work.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-28 05:39:25 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/roa-taona-manao-170-km.html