Canal des Pangalanes

[3][4] Initial construction of the canal was undertaken by France under gouverneur Joseph Gallieni during the French colonial period between 1896 and 1904[5][2][6] to increase trade, provide a means to supply troops that were located inland,[6] and to provide a safe route for cargo boats destined for Toamasina compared to traveling along the coast of the Indian Ocean.

[6] Further work after World War II enabled 30-ton barges to travel between Tamatave and Vatomandry, a distance of 160 kilometres (100 mi).

[3] Ferries run up and down navigable areas transporting items such as wood, charcoal, dried fish and other produce.

[2][3] The rehabilitation project included dredging areas overrun with silt, the operation of a cargo service enabled by the purchase of a fleet of tug barges, and the construction of warehouses.

[9] An oil refinery south of Toamasina contributed to pollution in that area of the canal, as evidenced by hyacinths covered with grey-colored slime.

Canal des Pangalanes between Nosy Varika and Mahanoro
The canal between Mananjary and Nosy Varika
A man in a canoe on the canal
An inoperative bridge on the canal in Mananjary , which was damaged by a typhoon. Underneath it, a makeshift bamboo bridge was built, which is removed for passing ships upon payment of a fee.