Ivory Coast Abidjan commuters turn to boats to escape traffic jams

Modern boats from several lagoon transport companies sail on the Ebrie Lagoon in front of buildings in the economic capital Abidjan, Ivory Coast, October 15, 2021. Picture taken October 15, 2021. REUTERS/Luc Gnago

ABIDJAN (Reuters) - Commuters in Ivory Coast's bustling commercial capital Abidjan are turning to waterways to escape worsening road traffic, with growing boat fleets offering faster and cheaper trips across the lagoon.

The government estimates that Abidjan residents spend about three hours a day in transit, often on congested, poorly kept roads. Almost every neighbourhood in the city of five million is on the water, presenting an attractive alternative.