On August 11, 2026, Casablanca is set to take significant steps in enhancing its public transport system by securing a loan of approximately 444 million dirhams. This financial move aims to facilitate the acquisition of 350 buses currently operated by Alsa Al Baida, a key player in the city's transportation sector. A considerable portion of the loan will initially be allocated to settle existing debts owed to the banking institutions associated with Alsa Al Baida, thereby stabilizing the financial standing of the transport operator.

The decision to proceed with this loan was made during an extraordinary session of the Intercommunal Cooperation Establishment of Al Baida, which oversees transportation in the metropolitan area. The approval of this contract with a banking institution marks a crucial step in reclaiming these 350 buses from Alsa Al Baida, which has been managing the bus network for the region.

In detail, out of the total loan amount, 284 million dirhams will be directed towards settling Alsa Al Baida's existing bank debt, while the remaining 160 million dirhams will be utilized for the acquisition of the bus fleet. This financial agreement is structured to be repaid over eight annual installments, ensuring a manageable repayment plan for the city.

Negotiations Lead to Reduced Financial Claims from Alsa

Initially, Alsa had demanded a payment of 480 million dirhams for the transfer of the bus fleet. However, negotiations facilitated a significant reduction in this figure, bringing it down to 219.578 million dirhams. To complement this financial transaction, a second amendment to the management contract of the Casablanca bus network has been approved, aimed at addressing various accumulated financial challenges and aligning the contract with both current and future operational conditions.

As a part of this agreement, Alsa Al Baida has committed to irrevocably relinquishing all previous financial claims against the city. This strategic move not only secures the acquisition of the 350 buses but also effectively resolves a financial dispute that initially involved claims nearing half a billion dirhams. The outcome of these negotiations marks a pivotal moment for Casablanca's public transportation landscape, aiming to enhance service delivery while alleviating financial burdens.

As reported by bladi.net.