One year after King Mohammed VI inaugurated the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed line, the National Office of Railways (ONCF) has reported substantial advancements across all components of the national railway program, which boasts a total budget of 96 billion dirhams. This ambitious project includes the development of a new 430-kilometer infrastructure, the acquisition of modern trains, and enhancements to the existing network, with various construction activities currently underway.
Investment Strategy for Modernizing Rail Transport
The railway program is a crucial part of Morocco's strategy to modernize its rail transport system. It engages a total investment of 96 billion dirhams distributed across several key areas. Notably, 53 billion dirhams are allocated for the construction of the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed line, which focuses on building the essential infrastructure and equipping the railway. Additionally, 29 billion dirhams are earmarked for the acquisition of 168 new trains aimed at renewing and strengthening the current fleet. Complementing these efforts, 14 billion dirhams will be dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the performance of the existing rail network. This comprehensive investment is designed to meet the growing demand for mobility while significantly upgrading the capabilities of the railway system.
Progress on the Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Line
Progress on the Kenitra-Marrakech line, stretching 430 kilometers, has been notable across various fronts. Land acquisition operations have been completed, facilitating the necessary space for construction activities. Civil engineering works are advancing on the entire route, with earthworks and the construction of significant structures proceeding according to schedule. To date, approximately 20 million cubic meters of excavation and filling have been accomplished.
Several critical structures are currently under construction, including 15 viaducts and three covered trenches, particularly located near Casablanca Airport, Zenata, and Aïn Atiq, totaling a length of 1.5 kilometers. Furthermore, the project includes the establishment of 92 railway and road bridges.
The necessary equipment for operating the line is being procured, with significant quantities mobilized, including around 2.5 million tons of ballast, 800,000 tons of sleepers, over 100,000 tons of rails, and 220 track devices. Alongside these efforts, enhancements are being carried out on existing tracks, including track laying across several segments, and the signaling systems are in the preparation stage for deployment.
As for passenger stations, the architectural concepts have been finalized, and construction is gradually commencing, with the first phase initiated at the beginning of 2026. The entirety of the station construction projects is expected to launch by July 2026.
The program has resulted in a robust network of participating companies, with approximately 150 firms involved in various aspects of the project, the majority of which are national enterprises. This engagement not only supports economic activity but also fosters the development of technical skills related to large-scale infrastructure projects. The Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed line is set to enhance connections between Morocco's principal regions, thereby supporting increased mobility needs throughout the country.
As reported by quid.ma.
