The recent passage of Cyclone Garance has caused significant disruption across Reunion Island, but as the storm moves away, authorities are working to restore transportation services.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the Prefect of Reunion Island announced the lifting of the red alert, which brought some much-needed relief to residents and travelers. The cyclone had previously traversed the island, leading to heightened concerns over safety and mobility.
Kar'Ouest, the public transportation network serving the western territory, has informed users about service interruptions due to the cyclone's aftermath. Authorities will conduct assessments of the road network to determine the readiness for resuming normal transit operations. "The restoration of roads is also necessary for proper service resumption," said officials.
Although the alert has been lifted, the public is being urged to remain cautious. Users are encouraged to stay updated regularly about the situation, especially concerning their travel plans.
Meanwhile, the CARSUD network has announced plans to begin limited operations on the same day, starting at 1:00 PM. The resumption will depend on weather and roadway conditions. A reconnaissance of the roads will be conducted beforehand to assess the safety of the routes. Customers have been advised to check both the CARSUD website and their Facebook page for real-time updates on line disruptions.
Similarly, the Alternéo transport service has also confirmed it will resume operations at 1:00 PM, pending the same weather conditions. Travelers should be alert for any potential changes due to the continuing evaluations of safety measures.
On the other hand, Citalis has announced the operational status of several lines across its service area. Specifically, Line 11, connecting Collège Montgaillard and Victoire, has been reinstated. Service points at Chaudron, Petit Marché, and Hôtel de Ville are now open for customers. The assessment of the network is still underway, with updates promised to travelers shortly.
Other operational lines include Line 1, which connects Station Chaudron to the Ocean, and Line 5, running from Stade de l'Est to Hôtel de Ville de Saint-Denis. Citalis reaffirmed its commitment to keep the public informed about changes as they arise.
Despite the chaos Cyclone Garance has caused, public transport authorities on Reunion Island are making strides to restore normalcy. Residents are being reminded to exercise caution during their travels even as services begin to resume. The clear communication from various transport networks emphasizes their dedication to safety and efficiency as they navigate the aftermath of the cyclone.
"We understand the difficulties this storm has posed to connectivity on the island," one transport official noted. "Our priority is to regain safe access for our users as quickly and efficiently as possible." This commitment will be pivotal as life gradually returns to normal for the residents of Reunion Island.