The road section between Mahajanga and Berivotra has drawn considerable complaints from users over the past year. This bumpy stretch is marked by severe deterioration and chaotic conditions. Road rehabilitation work in Mahajanga began Monday.

Traffic on National Route 4 connecting Mahajanga to the capital is gradually increasing. The first wave of holiday travelers has already returned to their homes after spending several weeks since June. From this week onward, more traffic is expected on this national route from the capital and other regions of the island.

The section between Mahajanga, passing through Belobaka in Mahajanga district, Besely, and extending to Berivotra has particularly drawn numerous complaints from users over the past year. This bumpy road stretch is characterized by advanced deterioration and chaotic conditions. The journey currently takes approximately two hours, compared to forty-five minutes previously.

Drivers and users feel frustrated and disappointed traveling this section of the national route. This final stretch of the journey spanning over 570 kilometers between Mahajanga and Antananarivo has become a genuine ordeal for everyone—passengers and drivers alike.

Total deterioration

"The asphalt has been stripped away on certain segments, particularly from Marohogo forest station, Besely through Berivotra and Ambovondramanesy. This is unprecedented. Vehicles take much longer to travel between Mahajanga and Berivotra due to the bumpy, trembling road surface filled with rocks and potholes. This section has remained in this state of total deterioration for over a year. The vibrations cause vehicle damage. Tires are frequently punctured at this location. We're forced to replace our bearings and bushings after each passage. Public Works Ministry officials must resolve this problem quickly. When the rainy season arrives, we expect the worst," criticized a taxi-brousse driver.

The deterioration of this road infrastructure also affects the Mahajanga city crossing, classified as a national route, from Ambohimandamina, Tanambao Sotema through Antanimalandy, Amparehigidro, in front of the Star agency headquarters, to Mahajanga's city exit at Belobaka and to the Ambalakida intersection.

Belobaka commune serves as the gateway to Mahajanga city. The road's disastrous condition is unworthy of welcoming visitors. Mahajanga urban commune officially launched work in the city last Monday, particularly at Ambondrona and Mangarivotra near the Don Bosco diocesan pastoral center, Antanimasaja, Ambohimandamina, Tanambao Sotema, and toward Belobaka. Approximately eight construction sites are included in these road rehabilitation projects.