After cleanup operations, disorder is gradually returning to the streets of Antananarivo, with sidewalk occupations, illegal dumping, and civic misconduct becoming increasingly visible. The roadway is becoming more congested as different users—pedestrians, merchants, carts, and vehicles—compete for space, making daily movement more difficult.
In Anosibe, some merchants are unloading goods directly onto the street, while pedestrians navigate between cars outside designated crossings, worsening traffic jams. In several neighborhoods, sidewalks are again occupied by informal vendors, forcing pedestrians onto the roadway. In Namontana, much of the circulation space is occupied by street merchants, reducing room for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Illicit constructions are multiplying, while some public spaces have become shelters for homeless individuals. Some transporters no longer respect traffic rules, increasing risks for road users. The proliferation of bicycle taxis and motorcycle taxis has also led to new illegal parking areas in several sectors. Added to this is the return of illegal waste dumping in certain neighborhoods, with beggars and homeless people reclaiming their former locations, further complicating public space management.
Hand-drawn carts and carriages often fail to respect rules set by the Antananarivo Urban Municipality (CUA). According to April announcements, these vehicles may circulate before 7 a.m., between 10 a.m. and noon, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., and after 6 p.m.
Observers attribute the situation to a lack of civic education. "Despite municipal cleanup efforts, difficulties persist due to uncivic behavior," said an authorized source. "Illegal waste dumping, chaotic occupation of public spaces, and non-compliance with rules worsen conditions in several capital neighborhoods."
"Everyone must make efforts. Sidewalks are for pedestrians, but today it's difficult to move without taking risks," said Vonjinirina, a capital resident. He believes control actions must be accompanied by genuine public awareness to prevent a return to old practices.
Municipal officials say they continue cleanup and control operations while acknowledging difficulties maintaining order without active public participation. "Rehabilitating the capital will be complex. All sectors face difficulties," declared Feno Ralambomanana, president of the CUA's Special Delegation, presenting his report on actions since taking office this month.
Despite these challenges, the Municipality maintains three priorities: transport, markets, and city cleanliness. However, the gradual return of certain practices shows that maintaining order in the capital remains an ongoing challenge.