Transport and traffic flow in Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe has been plagued by constant traffic congestion for several years, though less severe than Réunion, but dangerously close to reaching that level. Martinique is also heavily congested, with ever-increasing traffic flow. Political authorities have tried to improve the situation, building public transportation lines and managing traffic by installing roundabouts at great expense (Federal Funding), but to no avail; the situation is even worse. There are undoubtedly several reasons for this, but obviously the size of the island and the fact that the roads cannot handle the flow of traffic; two lanes are insufficient for the number of vehicles on the island. Bypass roads have been planned for decades, but nothing has been done, and no efficient transportation system exists on the island. In northern Basse-Terre, for example, it takes almost 1.5 to 2 hours to travel 40 kilometers to reach Jarry (Baie-Mahault), the economic center of Guadeloupe, between 7:00 and 9:00 AM. The same is true on Grande-Terre; the towns of Saint-François, Sainte-Anne, and Le Gosier are completely isolated, with only small two-lane roads leading to the island’s economic hub. Major infrastructure projects are needed, but no politician is talking about them.
Another reason for this traffic in Guadeloupe is the strong attachment of Guadeloupeans to their cars. About ten years ago, the department was the leading consumer of BMWs, while the unemployment rate reached 26%. A car is a social marker of belonging; Guadeloupeans spend 55% more on their vehicles than those in mainland France. Small local startups have tried launching carpooling services or car rental companies like laperlerentacar.com in Martinique, but it hasn’t taken off for the simple reason that cars are still too central to the lives of the island’s inhabitants.
So what can be done?

Projects involving maritime shuttles have been studied, but they are complicated and unsafe during hurricane season.

These recurring problems affect everyone, Guadeloupeans and tourists alike. Rental cars are scarce at agencies, and not enough during peak season. Hitchhiking doesn’t work for long journeys, and you have plenty of time to get sunburned. Buses and coaches could be more frequent with extended operating hours during peak season, or… the planned bypass and road widening projects could finally get underway.

But with regional elections coming up soon, perhaps there will be some promises 😉

Source: cars guadeloupe