Government's Strategic Response to Recent Floods
In light of the recent floods that have plagued Morocco, as well as those experienced in the previous year, Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, has emphasized the urgent need for government intervention. A comprehensive program has been formulated, amounting to a staggering 3 billion dirhams, with 1.5 billion dirhams specifically allocated for road repairs. Baraka stated that this initiative encompasses all regions affected by the floods, extending beyond merely the severely impacted areas such as Chefchaouen, Taounate, and Taza.
During a public session dedicated to addressing inquiries from parliament members on Monday, Baraka highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Equipment and the Ministry of Interior, along with local authorities, in response to the substantial damage inflicted on various road segments. He disclosed that starting this month, tenders will be launched to commence the repair work on these roads, which includes areas such as Tetouan. The Minister also pointed out that a special program is in place for the rehabilitation of roads damaged by the floods, with 47% of the road budget allocated for maintenance activities. Furthermore, approximately 500 kilometers of rural roads will benefit from maintenance operations, marking a significant step that has been undertaken for the first time under this government.
Enhancing Infrastructure and Connectivity
Baraka further underscored the ongoing efforts to repair and upgrade several key infrastructure projects that have sustained damage due to the floods. A crucial list of these facilities has been prepared for rehabilitation and enhancement. He noted that the overarching issues related to road networks pertain to their development and increased effectiveness. The Minister announced that initiatives aimed at strengthening these routes have commenced, particularly focusing on improving connectivity between regions and provinces. This includes projects associated with highways; notably, the completion of the highway linking Berrechid and Tétouan and ongoing work on the highway that will connect Safi to Nador, facilitating access to the Nador West Med port.
Additionally, Baraka addressed the construction of the continental highway between Rabat and Casablanca, which spans 59 kilometers, along with ongoing studies related to several highway segments throughout the country. He emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity to remote regions as part of a new investment charter aimed at stimulating investment across various provinces. This includes expanding the road network and establishing new dual carriageways. The Minister highlighted the successful completion of the highway between Tiznit and Dakhla, with plans for extension to reach Guerguerat as a second phase, while also noting significant progress on the Saguia al-Hamra river bridge.
The Minister also mentioned several critical highway projects, including the Fes–Taounate highway via National Road No. 8, and the highway between Tetouan and Chefchaouen, where work has commenced on a 5.5-kilometer segment. Other highways mentioned include the one linking Hajeb and Ifrane, as well as connections between Sidi Yahia and Sidi Qasim, Safi and Marrakech, and the highway between Kelaa des Sraghna and Marrakech, all of which are set to enhance regional connectivity.
Furthermore, in collaboration with local governments, the Minister announced the identification of several significant projects aimed at improving road networks and classified roads. He confirmed the introduction of a new dimension in the Ministry's involvement in rural roads, facilitating partnerships with local councils or regional authorities.
As reported by hespress.com.
