Agadir's New Bus Rapid Transit System: A Milestone in Urban Mobility
In a significant development for urban transportation, Agadir has officially launched its first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line, branded as "Amalway TRAMBUS." This new transit system connects the city's port to the Tikiouine district, covering a distance of 15.5 kilometers and featuring 35 strategically placed stations. The project, which had been part of Agadir's Urban Mobility Plan since 2014, faced multiple delays before its official launch in May 2026, following an experimental phase that began in April of the same year.
The BRT service is designed to enhance the efficiency of public transportation in Agadir, aiming to accommodate up to 60,000 passengers daily. Buses will operate at five-minute intervals during peak hours, with the entire route taking approximately 45 minutes to traverse. The fleet consists of 30 articulated buses, each measuring between 18 to 21 meters in length, manufactured at MAN’s facility in Poland and equipped with advanced systems at the SEFAMAR MAN Morocco site in Casablanca. These buses operate on dedicated lanes, ensuring a smooth and rapid transit experience for commuters.
The BRT line's route follows a north-south-east axis through central Agadir, starting from the fishing port and Marina, moving along Avenue Mohamed V, and incorporating several key streets before reaching its final stop near the Tikiouine market. This initiative is not just about improving transportation; it is also part of a broader urban development plan that includes enhancements to sidewalks, the addition of green spaces, and the renovation of building facades along the route.
Funding and Future Prospects
The total budget for the BRT project has increased from an initial estimate of MAD 1.2 billion (approximately $120 million) to roughly MAD 1.4 billion ($140 million). Financial backing has come from various sources, including the Transport Reform Support Fund (FRAT), the Souss-Massa Region, and the Commune of Agadir, as well as a significant contribution from the French Development Agency (AFD) amounting to €33 million. This loan is structured as a repayable credit with a 20-year term and a five-year grace period, further emphasizing the project's importance in promoting sustainable urban mobility.
The Agadir BRT is envisioned as the backbone of the Greater Agadir public transport network, seamlessly connecting with existing bus routes and future hubs. This strategic integration aims to facilitate transfers to suburban lines serving areas like Anza, Aourir, and Taghazout. As part of a larger urban mobility initiative, Agadir has invested over MAD 1 billion ($100 million) in transportation improvements just in 2025, which included deploying new-generation buses across the conventional network.
In conclusion, the launch of the Amalway TRAMBUS marks a pivotal moment in Agadir's journey toward modernizing its public transport system. With its focus on sustainability, efficiency, and urban development, this project sets a precedent for future infrastructure initiatives in Morocco.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
