Colorful cars rapide represent an iconic mode of public transportation in Dakar, Senegal. But they're scheduled to be phased out of the congested West African capital city by December 2018, in favor of more modern, cleaner-running buses. Many will lament the vibrant minibuses' passing.
A Transporting Experience
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The car rapide has become a symbol for Senegal's capital, but the government plans to park them for good by late 2018 to modernize transportation and ease pollution. (R. Shryock/VOA)
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Urban transport officials say Dakar residents need updated transportation options, but some still prefer colorful minibuses to their bigger, modern rivals. (R. Shryock/VOA)
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Passengers ride in a car rapide in Dakar, Senegal. (R. Shryock/VOA)
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A passenger sits below a photo of a local religious leader. Drivers and owners decorate minibuses with photos of these 'marabouts,' reflecting which Muslim brotherhood they belong to in Senegal. (R. Shryock/VOA)