Minister Highlights Progress in Moroccan Rail Services
On Monday, the Moroccan Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdel Samad Qiyouh, defended the current quality of services offered by the country's rail network during a session at the House of Representatives. He emphasized that the punctuality rate of trains has exceeded 87%, and customer satisfaction surveys indicated a satisfaction level above 80%. However, Qiyouh acknowledged that while these numbers reflect positive progress, there remains room for improvement in response to feedback and criticisms.
Future Developments in High-Speed Rail Projects
Qiyouh also provided updates on the ongoing projects to extend the high-speed rail line, reporting that approximately 30% of this work has been completed, a figure he considers encouraging. The high-speed train project is expected to be delivered by September 2029, connecting Marrakech to Casablanca, as well as linking the economic capital with the administrative capital. During the parliamentary question session, he elaborated on the new rail link that will connect the capital, Rabat, with Mohammed V Airport, passing through the large stadium in Ben Slimane and reaching Marrakech. He indicated that the second phase of the project aims to establish a connection between the red city and Agadir, with preliminary studies indicating that the project will cost around 55 billion dirhams.
The minister noted that the initial results of these studies show that a significant portion of the construction will take place in the mountainous areas of the High Atlas, with engineering works accounting for approximately 70% of the total, particularly in the construction of over 35 bridges and tunnels. Qiyouh mentioned that the ministry and the National Office of Railways are actively seeking international funding with various partners.
In terms of regional trains, the minister reported that the construction progress has reached about 30%, which he views as a significant indicator that deadlines for completing and delivering these trains will be met. These trains are expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing urban transport, facilitating travel distances, promoting public transport, and reducing congestion in urban areas. Furthermore, the new regional railcars will feature modern stations, particularly in Rabat, with plans for small stations that will allow trains to run every 10 minutes, significantly alleviating traffic pressure and providing efficient alternatives to road transport, including taxis.
The project also includes a Casablanca corridor, which will have 17 stations between Ben Slimane and Nouaceur, as well as the port area, linking new railway stations to the planned new Casablanca station, set to be completed by 2029. This modern station will integrate high-speed trains, regional trains, and local trains, aiming to provide a seamless transportation solution for passengers traveling to and from the airport. According to the minister, this integration will create a comprehensive transport system that enhances the tourism appeal of cities. The new Casablanca airport is expected to acquire international significance, especially with the expansion of the Royal Air Maroc fleet, focusing on long-haul aircraft and opening new long-distance routes.
Among the anticipated routes, Qiyouh highlighted the new Casablanca-Los Angeles line, which will open this summer. Previously, travelers needed to make at least two stops, such as in New York or Paris, before arriving in Casablanca or Marrakech. Now, passengers will have the option to fly directly to the economic capital, with the possibility of integrating their flight and train tickets, allowing them to reach downtown Marrakech in approximately 55 minutes upon arrival at the new "Casablanca" station. Qiyouh concluded by stating that no other mode of transport could compete with this rapid transit time, ensuring that Marrakech will be directly connected to Casablanca's international airport. He noted that a similar situation applies to Tangier and several other major international capitals included in the Royal Air Maroc expansion plan, such as Beijing, Tokyo, Delhi, and Santiago de Chile.
As reported by hespress.com.
