Vacoas Town Revamp Underway to Ease Traffic and Boost Urban Development

A site visit was carried out by the Minister of Land Transport, Mr Mahomed Osman Cassam Mahomed, this morning at the Vacoas Traffic Centre to assess prevailing traffic conditions and proposed infrastructural developments in the town.

He was accompanied by the Minister of Energy and Public Utilities, Mr Patrick Gervais Assirvaden; the Junior Minister of Local Government, Mr Mohammad Fawzi Allymun; and the Mayor of the Municipal Council of Vacoas-Phoenix, Mr Sanjeev Dindyal.

The visit follows growing traffic congestion in the area after the implementation of the Metro Express, which has significantly impacted traffic circulation. The objective was to assess measures aimed at improving traffic flow, enhancing accessibility, and supporting the broader vision of revamping and regenerating Vacoas.

Key interventions under consideration include converting Independence Avenue into a permanent two-way road, relocating part of the existing traffic centre, and reorganising surrounding public and commercial spaces. The visit also enabled an on-site assessment and engagement with stakeholders to ensure that the proposed measures are practical, sustainable, and aligned with the long-term development goals for Vacoas.

In a statement, Minister Mahomed highlighted that the conversion of Independence Avenue into a permanent two-way road is primarily aimed at easing traffic congestion by redistributing vehicle flow, particularly in the Savoy area, which has been a major bottleneck during peak hours. He explained that a two-week pilot project will be implemented to assess the feasibility of extending the current temporary traffic diversion—presently operating only in the mornings—to a 24-hour basis.

The Minister further stressed that the initiative is not solely a traffic management measure but forms part of a broader urban planning and land development strategy. He underscored the need for close coordination with relevant authorities to ensure the long-term sustainability and development of the town centre.

The Junior Minister for his part, highlighted that the revamping of Vacoas has already begun in response to public concerns about traffic congestion and urban accessibility. The project, he said, will involve full utilisation of Independence Avenue, partial relocation of the traffic centre, and broader improvements to public infrastructure.

Mr Allymun also emphasised the importance of collaborative planning with stakeholders—including local authorities, businesses, and community groups—to ensure that the interventions are sustainable and effectively address long-standing congestion issues, particularly along John Kennedy Avenue during peak hours.

The Mayor, Mr Dindyal, emphasised that residents have been facing persistent congestion issues due to limited public transport access and narrow circulation routes in the town centre. He explained that the project aims to decongest main roads, make public spaces more accessible and user-friendly and enhance the overall attractiveness of the area.

The revamping and regeneration of the Vacoas town forms part of a long-term strategic vision to transform the area into a more organised, accessible and vibrant urban space. The project encompasses preparing a master plan, relocating key facilities such as the traffic centre, Vacoas Market, and Vacoas Fair, and upgrading major roads including St Paul Road, John Kennedy Avenue, and Independence Avenue.

Measures also focus on improving accessibility for persons with disabilities through pavement realignment, renovating commercial buildings, developing a modern food court, cleaning and beautifying underutilised spaces, and creating an urban terminal. Implemented in phases, the project prioritises sustainability, energy efficiency, and minimal environmental impact.

26 March 2026

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Topics: Transportation, Traffic Management