Significant Investment in Water Infrastructure
Morocco is witnessing a transformative phase in its water management strategy, with substantial investments of over 29.7 billion dirhams allocated to the construction and elevation of major dams. These projects combined promise a colossal cumulative capacity exceeding 5 billion cubic meters. As reported, several key projects have already surpassed the 80% completion threshold, showcasing the government's commitment to enhancing the nation’s water resources.
Among the standout projects is the Sidi Abou dam located in the Taounate province, which has achieved a remarkable 100% completion status. This project, with a budget of 1.209 billion dirhams, will provide a capacity of 200 million cubic meters. Similarly, the Aït Ziat dam in the Haouz region has also reached full completion, with an investment of 1.942 billion dirhams and a capacity of 185 million cubic meters scheduled to come online in 2027.
Another noteworthy project is the Beni Azimane dam in Driouch, which is currently at 98% completion and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026. This project involves an investment of 1.482 billion dirhams, aimed at providing a capacity of 44 million cubic meters. In Azilal, the Oued Lakhdar dam is progressing at 86% completion, with a financial commitment of 1.717 billion dirhams for a storage capacity of 150 million cubic meters, projected to be completed in 2027.
Future Prospects and Ongoing Developments
The Mokhtar Soussi dam in Taroudant, which is undergoing elevation, has reached 83.5% completion with a budget of 1.640 billion dirhams for a capacity of 280 million cubic meters, with its completion slated for 2027. The Targa Ou Madi dam in Jerada is advancing well at 90%, with an estimated cost of 1.849 billion dirhams for a capacity of 287 million cubic meters, also expected by 2027. Meanwhile, the Boulaouane dam in Chichaoua is currently at 81% completion, with an investment of 1.356 billion dirhams for a capacity of 66 million cubic meters, projected to be finished in 2027.
In total, the Moroccan government has set ambitious plans for further expanding its water infrastructure, including the construction of small dams, with 155 planned between 2022 and 2027, and an estimated investment of 6.236 billion dirhams. This forward-thinking approach is anticipated to bolster water resources significantly, providing a resilient strategy against the challenges posed by climate change and population growth.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.