Transforming Urban Mobility in Morocco
In a groundbreaking initiative, Morocco is embarking on an extensive plan to enhance public transportation in its major cities, specifically Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech. This monumental project, in collaboration with the World Bank, aims to address the growing challenges posed by rapid urbanization, which has led to a significant strain on existing transportation infrastructure. The Moroccan government is set to revolutionize mobility by investing heavily in modernizing and expanding public transit systems. The initial phase of funding, amounting to approximately $350.88 million, is part of a broader strategy estimated at $1.8 billion, which was previously supported by financial aid for the Casablanca metropolitan area in 2025.
Currently, urban populations in Morocco constitute around 60% of the total populace, a figure projected to exceed 70% by 2050. To accommodate this demographic shift, the public transport overhaul will include a complete redesign of bus fleets to ensure better geographical coverage. This entails deploying new vehicles equipped with advanced technology, such as electronic ticketing systems, aimed at providing more frequent services and enhancing accessibility to key job centers and essential services.
Strategic Developments and Future Prospects
One of the core components of this ambitious plan is the establishment of high-service bus corridors. By 2030, Rabat is expected to benefit from four rapid transit lines stretching nearly 50 kilometers, while Tangier and Marrakech will also see significant expansions with additional networks of around 20 kilometers. Furthermore, studies are underway to introduce additional suburban rail connections in the medium term, enhancing intercity transport options and reducing congestion.
Beyond infrastructural improvements, the project includes an administrative restructuring that will lead to the creation of local urban mobility agencies aimed at optimizing funding and ensuring efficient management of transportation services. This initiative positions Morocco as a leader in the transport sector on the international stage, with Rabat set to host a ministerial conference on June 23-24, 2026, marking the country's presidency of the Western Mediterranean Transport Ministers Group, taking over from Malta.
As reported by bladi.net.
