The first cable cars in neighbourhoods of Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, have been launched with the first passengers including the President Andriy Rajoelina, local officials and contractors.
With a passenger capacity of 75,000 people per day, the cable cars are expected to help alleviate traffic in Antananarivo, which is home to more than 3 million people.
Gérard Andriamanohisoa, Secretary of State for New Towns and Housing at the Presidency, commented: “Removing 75,000 passengers daily at bus level and 2,000 cars from Tana road level will significantly reduce carbon emissions and enhance mobility.”
This was developed from a 152 million Euro loan from France, covers a distance of 12 kilometres and was tested for safety during June.
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Guillaume Rannaz, the technical manager of Poma, the project contractor, noted that many sensors have been placed in stations and along the line to detect and prevent unfavourable occurrences so that passengers can be safe. “Additionally, generators are in place to maintain operations during power outages,” he added.
However, at a cost of almost one Euro per ticket, many Malagasy consider the fares to be too expensive, which are six times the price of the bus.
Some residents are dissatisfied, saying that they need basic amenities such as water and electricity, not the cable car project.
“We lack water and electricity. When water flows, it’s often muddy, yet we still pay bills. Why not tackle these social issues first?” questioned Henry Razafimanantsoa, an Antananarivo resident.
President Rajoelina defends the project vigorously, though critics fear higher national debt on the former colonial master, France.
“We must dare to transform and develop our country. Critics rarely take action. We faced similar criticisms with the Eiffel Tower’s construction. Today, it’s a symbol attracting tourists to France,” affirmed Rajoelina.
To encourage people’s use of the cable cars, the government will provide discounted fares for students and pensioners, which will start public operations in 2025.
