The Pangalanes Canal runs along 600 km of the Eastern coast of Madagascar. It was built by the French in the 40?s to facilitate the transport of goods (mainly minerals and tropical wood) from the interior of the island towards Toamasina?s harbour, the main commercial port in the country.
It once was the only route during the raining season and was a prosperous area. After independence the canal was not maintained.
Today it is used for fishing and transport by the local villagers. Life is tough there. Agriculture and fishing are the main vital activities.