Infrastructure Rehabilitation Program to Address Flood Damage
In a recent statement, Morocco's Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, underscored the urgent need for ministry intervention following the recent floods, as well as those experienced in the previous year. To address these pressing issues, a comprehensive program has been devised, allocating a substantial budget of 3 billion Dirhams, with 1.5 billion Dirhams specifically earmarked for road repairs. Baraka emphasized that this initiative encompasses all regions impacted by the floods, not just the most severely affected areas such as Chefchaouen, Taounate, and Taza.
During a public session dedicated to oral questions, Baraka highlighted the collaborative efforts underway with the Ministry of Interior and local authorities due to the extensive damage inflicted on numerous road segments. He revealed that starting this month, tenders will be issued to initiate the repair of these roads in the affected areas, including Tetouan. Furthermore, Baraka noted that there exists a dedicated program for the rehabilitation of flood-damaged roads, with 47% of the road budget allocated to maintenance activities. This initiative will benefit approximately 500 kilometers of rural roads, marking a significant step forward as it is the first time such measures have been adopted under the current government.
Strengthening Road Connectivity and Infrastructure Development
The minister also stressed the importance of repairing and upgrading various infrastructure facilities that suffered due to the floods. A comprehensive list of critical structures has been prepared, which are slated for enhancement and rehabilitation. Baraka explained that the primary issues regarding road networks generally revolve around how to improve and reinforce their effectiveness. To this end, efforts are underway to strengthen these roadways, particularly by enhancing connectivity between regions and provinces. Notably, projects related to highways are also in progress. The minister mentioned the completion of the highway linking Berrechid and Tétouan, and the ongoing work on the highway that will connect Safi to Nador, facilitating access to the Nador West Med Port.
Additionally, Baraka discussed the completion of the continental highway between Rabat and Casablanca, which extends over 59 kilometers, alongside ongoing studies concerning several highway segments across the country. In the context of enhancing connectivity for isolated provinces, and with the adoption of a new investment charter, it has been deemed essential to bolster road networks by expanding them and creating new expressways and dual carriageways. He referenced the completed highway linking Tiznit and Dakhla, which is currently being extended to reach Guerguerat as part of a second phase. The construction of the Oued Sakia Al Hamra bridge is also making significant progress.
Baraka highlighted additional highways such as the Fes-Taounate route via National Road No. 8, the highway between Tetouan and Chefchaouen, where a 5.5-kilometer segment has already commenced construction. Other projects mentioned include the highway between Hajeb and Ifrane, the highway connecting Sidi Yahya and Sidi Kacem, and the highway linking Safi and Marrakech, among others, all aimed at enhancing inter-regional connectivity.
Moreover, within the framework of programs established in partnership with local authorities, the Minister mentioned that a number of significant projects have been identified, aimed at improving roadways and classified roads. He emphasized the introduction of a new dimension involving the ministry's involvement in rural roads, in collaboration with regional or provincial councils. This strategic approach aims to address pressing infrastructure needs and enhance the overall transportation network across Morocco.
As reported by hespress.com.
