ONCF's Major Infrastructure Development
The National Office of Railways (ONCF) of Morocco has initiated a tender for the construction of six new train stations along the Kenitra-Casablanca axis, with an estimated budget of 480 million dirhams. This announcement, made on September 17, is part of the broader initiative aimed at enhancing the future high-speed rail connection between Kenitra and Marrakech. The project encompasses stations located in Sidi Taibi, Sidi Bouknadel, Sidi Abdellah, Salé Tabriquet, Aïn Atiq, and Zenata Ville Nouvelle. These stations are grouped into a single lot, requiring a provisional guarantee of 6 million dirhams. Notably, ONCF has stated that no variations will be accepted in the submissions, which must be made electronically.
It is important to note that these facilities are not merely six additional stops for high-speed trains; rather, they are part of a comprehensive restructuring of a railway corridor that will accommodate various types of services, including high-speed trains, regional connections, and future local services. This strategic development is essential for the integration of modern rail transport, which aims to meet the growing demands of passengers in the region.
Strengthening the Metropolitan Network
Among the six new stations, five will be situated on the forthcoming local rail network in the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra area. Stations such as Sidi Taibi, Sidi Bouknadel, Sidi Abdellah, Salé Tabriquet, and Aïn Atiq are set to be included in a metropolitan line stretching approximately 54 kilometers, connecting Kenitra to Skhirate. The plan laid out by ONCF anticipates twelve stops along this route, with trains operating at a frequency of up to one every fifteen minutes. This initiative reflects ONCF's commitment to enhancing urban mobility and providing efficient transport solutions for commuters.
In Casablanca, the Zenata station will be a key component of the city's future metropolitan network, which is undergoing significant reorganization, particularly between Mohammedia and Nouaceur. The project on this axis includes the development of six tracks, with two designated for high-speed trains, two for local services, and two for other rail traffic. Furthermore, at least 40 existing structures will need to be adapted to facilitate this separation of traffic flows, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation of the railway system.
As the tender process unfolds, it coincides with ongoing construction efforts for the Kenitra-Marrakech line, which spans 430 kilometers. ONCF reported in April that nearly 20 million cubic meters of earthworks have been completed, alongside 15 viaducts currently under construction and the engagement of 92 rail or road bridges. The extension of high-speed rail services to Marrakech alone represents an investment of 53 billion dirhams, excluding rolling stock, and is part of a broader railway program valued at 96 billion dirhams, which also includes the acquisition of 168 trains and the enhancement of the existing network.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
