Significant Investment in Infrastructure Rehabilitation
The recent floods, alongside those experienced last year, have underscored the urgent need for intervention by the Ministry of Equipment and Water, according to Minister Nizar Baraka. He announced a comprehensive program valued at 3 billion dirhams, with 1.5 billion dirhams specifically allocated for road repairs. This initiative will encompass all regions affected by flooding, not just those severely impacted such as Chefchaouen, Taounate, and Taza. Baraka highlighted the importance of this program during a public session dedicated to oral questions, emphasizing that the ministry is coordinating closely with the Ministry of Interior and local authorities due to the extensive damage inflicted on various road segments. Starting this month, the ministry plans to initiate calls for tenders to commence repairs on damaged roads in affected areas, including Tetouan.
Baraka elaborated on a specialized program aimed at rehabilitating flood-impacted roads, noting that 47% of the road budget is dedicated to maintenance efforts. Approximately 500 kilometers of rural roads will benefit from maintenance operations, a measure that has been introduced for the first time under the current government. Furthermore, the minister stressed that efforts are also underway to repair and enhance numerous infrastructure facilities that were damaged by the floods. A significant list of these facilities has been prepared for rehabilitation and improvement, addressing the overarching issues related to road networks and their effectiveness.
Strengthening Connectivity and Road Networks
According to Baraka, initiatives are being launched primarily to strengthen these road networks, particularly focusing on enhancing connectivity between regions and provinces. He pointed out that there are specific projects related to highways, including the completion of the highway linking Berrechid and Tit Mellil, and ongoing work on the highway intended to connect Safi and Nador, ultimately facilitating access to the Nador West Med Port. Additionally, Baraka discussed the ongoing construction of the continental highway between Rabat and Casablanca, which spans 59 kilometers, as well as studies concerning several other highway segments across the country.
In terms of reducing isolation in various provinces, Baraka mentioned that, in light of a new investment charter, it was deemed essential to bolster road connectivity. This will involve expanding the network and establishing fast and dual carriageways. He also highlighted the completion of the highway linking Tiznit and Dakhla, with plans for an extension to reach Karkarat in a second phase, as well as significant progress on the Saguia el Hamra river bridge. Furthermore, he noted ongoing projects on the Fes-Taounate highway via National Road No. 8, the highway between Tetouan and Chefchaouen, and several other highways, thereby enhancing regional connectivity.
In conjunction with programs established in partnership with local authorities, the Minister of Equipment mentioned the identification of several key projects aimed at improving roadways and classified roads. He affirmed the introduction of a new dimension involving the ministry's intervention in rural roads, which is part of a collaborative effort with local governments or regional councils.
As reported by hespress.com.
