TCE Railway Line:
The Train Will Whistle Again !

[In parts of eastern Madagascar where roads remain unreliable or simply nonexistent, the railway is more than transport—it is often the only lifeline connecting entire communities to the rest of the island.]

For years, Madagascar's historic Tananarive–Côte Est (TCE) railway seemed destined to fade into memory, left to age alongside its weathered stations and rusting tracks. Today, however, hope is returning to the rails. The train, many believe, will whistle again.

A major turning point has emerged with the announcement of a $200 million financing package from the World Bank, dedicated to modernizing Madagascar's transport sector under the country's Multimodal Transport and Logistics Project. Designed to improve efficiency, safety, and climate resilience along the island's key economic corridors, the initiative places the TCE railway at the heart of a long-awaited national revival.

Back on Track

A significant share of this investment will fund the complete rehabilitation of the railway linking Antananarivo to Toamasina, Madagascar's principal port city. In total, 371 kilometers of railway infrastructure will be restored, reinforced, and modernized.

The expected benefits extend far beyond transportation alone. Economically, the upgraded line is expected to improve trade flows between the capital and the east coast, reduce logistics costs, and facilitate the movement of goods. But perhaps the most profound impact will be felt by the people living along the route.

In many remote parts of eastern Madagascar, where roads are often inaccessible during the rainy season, the railway remains the only dependable means of connection. For thousands of families, the return of regular rail service would mean easier access to markets, schools, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Another major change may come in passenger transport. For years, freight operations largely overshadowed passenger services, leaving local travelers with limited options. Communities along the railway now hope this new momentum will restore passenger trains to their rightful place.

Through Nature and History

Beyond its economic role, the TCE line offers one of Madagascar's most extraordinary travel experiences. Crossing some of the island's most biodiverse landscapes, the route winds through primary rainforests, deep valleys, and lush tropical scenery inhabited by Madagascar's iconic Lemur species.

The line therefore holds significant tourism potential. Its rehabilitation could breathe new life into railway tourism, attracting travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity.

The TCE is also deeply rooted in history. As one of Madagascar's first major railway lines, it still carries the architectural and cultural marks of the colonial era. Stations such as Rogez—later renamed Andekaleka—remain living witnesses of that past.