Kénitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Project Update
The ambitious Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed rail project has marked a significant milestone, achieving a completion rate of 30%. This development was announced recently by Abdessamad Kayouh, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, during a session at the House of Representatives in Rabat. The overall investment for this railway program, overseen by the National Office of Railways (ONCF), stands at a staggering 96 billion dirhams, with 53 billion dirhams allocated specifically for the construction of the 430-kilometer high-speed line connecting Kénitra and Marrakech.
One of the most transformative aspects of this project is its potential to drastically reduce travel times across key routes in Morocco. For instance, the trip from Tangier to Marrakech will be cut down from nearly 6 hours and 30 minutes to just 3 hours and 30 minutes. Similarly, the journey between Rabat and Tangier will take only an hour. This enhanced connectivity will not only benefit daily commuters but will also stimulate tourism and economic activity in the region.
Future Developments and Enhancements in Rail Services
Additionally, the Minister shared updates on the second phase of the project, which involves extending the line to Agadir, with an estimated cost of 55 billion dirhams. This phase will necessitate substantial construction work, including the building of multiple bridges and tunnels in the rugged terrain of the High Atlas Mountains. The ONCF is also focusing on local train services, commonly referred to as RER trains, which have similarly reached a 30% advancement rate. The Rabat-Kénitra-Skhirate route is set to feature a train every ten minutes to alleviate urban congestion.
In a bid to enhance the overall efficiency of rail services, the ONCF is planning to acquire new rolling stock for over 160 Atlas trains and establish a maintenance and locomotive manufacturing facility in Benguérir, boasting a local integration rate of 62%. The Minister reported that train punctuality has improved significantly, surpassing 87%, coupled with a user satisfaction rate exceeding 80%. These advancements signal a promising future for Morocco's rail infrastructure, aiming to provide high-speed and reliable travel options for its citizens and visitors alike.
As reported by lavieeco.com.
