The taxis of Bouches-du-Rhône are mobilizing for a national strike this Monday, causing significant disruptions to traffic in Marseille. Starting at 6 a.m., several convoys will engage in snail operations, aiming to slow down traffic on the main roads leading to the prefecture. Motorists should prepare for significant delays throughout the day.
Convoys departing from two strategic points
The gatherings of taxi drivers have been scheduled to start at dawn, with two main departure points: Valentine, to the east of Marseille, and the National Interest Market (MIN) of Arnavaux to the north. The convoys will take the A50 and A7 to converge towards the city center and reach the prefecture. This strategy aims to maximize the impact on traffic and draw attention to the drivers’ demands.
The strategic routes affected by the mobilization
The authorities anticipate a partial paralysis on several key roadways. Routes such as the A7, A50, A51, A517, and L2 will be particularly affected by these actions. The snail operations, which consist of driving at low speed in a group, will make progress nearly impossible on these routes, forcing motorists to reconsider their travel plans for the day.
A movement that is here to stay
This strike is not an isolated event. In recent months, taxi drivers in Marseille have already conducted several mobilizations to denounce the unfair competition from VTC platforms and the lack of consultation with the authorities. This Monday, the mobilizers expect a strong turnout, marking a will to make their voices heard regarding ongoing issues. Users are encouraged to use alternative transportation or postpone their trips if possible, to reduce congestion on the roads.
In summary, May 16, 2025, will be marked by a significant mobilization of taxi drivers in Marseille as part of a national strike. The snail operations orchestrated from several strategic points promise to turn traffic into a true obstacle course for motorists. As a symbol of the taxi drivers’ struggle against perceived unfair competition, this strike calls for reflection on the regulation of the transport sector. In light of the agitation in the streets and the impatience of users, drivers hope to draw attention to their demands and encourage the authorities to engage in dialogue. The consequences of this strike day are expected to be significant, both in terms of traffic and the duty of public authorities to listen to professions under pressure. The future of taxis in Marseille could well be shaped by the outcome of this event, highlighting the urgent need for reform in the field of urban transport.
