Comprehensive Development Around Mohammed V Airport
The Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) has initiated a significant new project worth 180 million dirhams aimed at enhancing infrastructure around Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport. This ambitious undertaking encompasses the construction of railway bridges, road expansions, and hydraulic works, all to be completed within a tight timeline of just seven months. The project is officially valued at 216 million dirhams, including taxes, as detailed in the call for tenders numbered 26T050/PLGV issued by ONCF.
This initiative focuses on civil engineering studies and construction projects that will cross Provincial Road RP3038 and several structures along the Bouskoura River, situated in the Casablanca and Nouaceur provinces. Companies interested in participating in the project have until September 24, 2026, to submit their bids, indicating a highly competitive environment for this critical infrastructure upgrade.
One of the key aspects of this project is the construction of two new railway bridges that will facilitate the crossing of RP3038: one bridge is designated for the future high-speed train line, while the other will serve the traditional railway line. This development is a part of the larger Kénitra-Marrakech High-Speed Train (LGV) project, which will traverse Bouskoura, Nouaceur, and the vicinity of Mohammed V Airport. The ONCF has indicated that this new 430-kilometer line is a vital component of its extensive 96 billion dirham railway program.
In addition to enhancing train infrastructure, the project also includes significant upgrades to RP3038, which serves the airport sector. Improvements will involve widening the road, creating a roundabout, and establishing new access points, which are crucial for managing the increased traffic expected with the airport's expansion.
Challenges of Construction Without Disrupting Access
The timeline for this project is notably challenging. The specifications outline a seven-month period to complete the work, with one month allocated solely for preparation. A significant hurdle will be executing these construction activities in a busy area where road traffic, existing rail services, and the future LGV construction intersect. The ONCF has previously indicated that major works between Mohammedia and Nouaceur would require multiple phases, with some tasks scheduled for nighttime to minimize disruption to commuters. Ultimately, the ONCF envisions six railway tracks along this corridor: two for high-speed trains, two for regional services, and two for other trains.
This new contract complements ongoing investments around the airport. The region has been working for several years to strengthen road connections between Bouskoura and Casablanca Airport, while simultaneously enhancing the rail network's role in facilitating access to the airport facilities. Additionally, a new multimodal station is planned for Mohammed V Airport, which will integrate high-speed trains, regional rail services, and bus transport into a single hub. This will allow travelers to seamlessly connect to the high-speed rail network without needing to pass through a city center station.
With this latest 180 million dirham investment, the transformation of not just the airport and its terminals but also the surrounding roadways, rail lines, and access structures is set to significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility to one of Morocco's busiest hubs.
As reported by bladi.net.
