Significant Investment for Flood Protection in Casablanca
Over 465 million Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) have been allocated for a major infrastructural project aimed at protecting the city of Casablanca, specifically its eastern region, from flooding. This initiative, known as the East Reinforcement System (SRE), is designed to enhance and sustainably upgrade the stormwater drainage network in a rapidly growing area, enabling it to effectively manage heavy rainfall events.
Commenced in February of this year, the SRE construction involves the creation of two underground stormwater storage galleries with a combined capacity of approximately 45,000 cubic meters. Utilizing modern drilling techniques that minimize disruption to traffic, these galleries, measuring 2.8×2.8 meters and 3.5×3.5 meters respectively, will extend a total of 3.7 kilometers and connect to the existing “Al Qods” and “Hay Sadri” galleries.
The project also includes the installation of 2.3 kilometers of collectors, primarily along Sakia Hamra Boulevard, with diameters ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 millimeters. Additional works encompass the construction of several manholes and drop structures, as well as the establishment of storm overflows and a pumping system. Progress on the site is proceeding according to the planned schedule, with the entire system expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2027.
Ultimately, the SRE will enhance flood protection in Casablanca's eastern districts, particularly in the areas of Aïn Chock, Ben M’Sick, Sidi Othmane, and Sbata. This will significantly improve the stormwater management capabilities of the metropolitan drainage network.
This initiative is part of the Priority Stormwater Drainage Program (PAPP) for 2025-2030, launched by the Casablanca-Settat Regional Management to strengthen the stormwater infrastructure of the region. The overall investment for this program is estimated at 5.6 billion MAD and includes the construction of six major stormwater collectors totaling 90 kilometers in length, with diameters reaching up to 6 meters.
The PAPP is implemented under the National Program for Shared Liquid Sanitation and Treated Wastewater Reuse (PNAM), co-financed by the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Equipment and Water, and the Casablanca-Settat Regional Council.
As reported by lavieeco.com.
