Temporary Suspension of Train Services to Marrakech
Travelers planning to journey to or from Marrakech will face a significant inconvenience this week, as the National Office of Railways (ONCF) has announced a complete suspension of train services for nearly two days. This disruption, effective from 9 PM on Tuesday, April 21 until 11 PM on Thursday, April 23, 2026, is a necessary part of the ongoing high-speed rail expansion project that aims to enhance connectivity across Morocco.
The specific works being undertaken will directly impact the train traffic on the Marrakech–Sidi Brahim section of the line. During this period, all train arrivals and departures will be redirected to Sidi Brahim station, effectively bypassing the Marrakech station entirely. To mitigate the impact on passengers, ONCF is implementing a bus replacement service between Sidi Brahim and Marrakech. Travelers departing from Marrakech are advised to board these buses, which will leave one hour earlier than the typical train schedule to ensure synchrony with train departures from Sidi Brahim. Conversely, buses will be available at Sidi Brahim to transport passengers into the heart of Marrakech, helping to facilitate their travel despite the ongoing construction works.
Passenger Guidance and Future Expectations
ONCF has committed to deploying staff at stations affected by this disruption to assist travelers and manage the flow of passengers during this busy period. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed by checking updates via the ONCF Voyages mobile application, customer service lines, or station display boards. Regular train services to and from Marrakech are anticipated to resume on Friday, April 24, bringing an end to this temporary disruption.
This suspension of service is the latest in a series of interruptions linked to extensive rail upgrades throughout the country. Over the past few months, passengers have faced a variety of challenges, including schedule adjustments, delays, and partial service suspensions, particularly along key routes in Casablanca and southern regions. While the long-term vision for a modern, high-speed rail network is promising, the immediate reality for many commuters remains fraught with unpredictability and inconvenience, as they navigate altered travel plans and additional transfers that may prolong their journeys and add complexity to their travel routines.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
