The decision to relocate the Bab Doukkala bus station in Marrakech to a new site in the Al-Azouziya area has sparked significant backlash from various stakeholders within the passenger transport sector. On Wednesday, May 20th, the professional associations representing this sector issued a joint statement addressed to the Wali of the Marrakech-Safi region and the President of the Regional Council. In this statement, they expressed their unequivocal rejection of what they deemed a "hasty decision" that jeopardizes the future of numerous transport companies and their employees.
The professional bodies that signed the statement, including the National Federation of Road Transport Professionals and the National Union of Passenger Transport, highlighted that the handling of this matter lacked a collaborative approach. They criticized the municipal council for making the relocation decision without engaging key professionals and stakeholders, despite the fact that investors hold a significant percentage of shares in the company managing the current bus station.
Furthermore, the statement condemned what was described as a "sudden and rapid relocation" occurring without a comprehensive study to evaluate the economic and social repercussions of the decision. The associations warned of the immediate impacts on existing investments and the potential for transport companies to face closure or bankruptcy if the decision is executed as is.
The professional organizations emphasized the economic and social dimensions of the Bab Doukkala station, asserting that it serves not only as a transit point for passengers but also as a complete economic ecosystem that provides livelihoods for thousands of workers and professionals directly and indirectly linked to the station's daily operations.
Concerns were also raised regarding the potential negative effects on citizens, particularly vulnerable groups and low-income individuals, due to the distance of the Al-Azouziya station from the city center. This relocation may lead to increased transportation costs and additional challenges for travelers.
In their official correspondence, the unions demanded an immediate halt to the relocation process until a serious institutional dialogue can be initiated, involving all stakeholders and the relevant ministry. They also called for a reassessment of the option to rehabilitate or rebuild the Bab Doukkala station, considering its strategic location within the city.
Additionally, they urged the inclusion of the Competition Council and relevant government bodies to adopt a balanced approach that safeguards the rights of professionals and investors, while avoiding what they termed "violations and repercussions" that could result from implementing a decision that may push several transport companies towards bankruptcy.
It is noteworthy that the Marrakech Municipal Council approved the decision to transfer the Bab Doukkala bus station to the Al-Azouziya site during its May 2026 session, with July set as the target date for commencing the transfer of management and personnel to the new facility.
As reported by jamaalfnapress.ma.
