The recent floods, along with those experienced last year, have necessitated decisive action from the Moroccan Ministry of Equipment and Water, led by Minister Nizar Baraka. A comprehensive program has been developed, amounting to a substantial investment of 3 billion dirhams, of which 1.5 billion dirhams is specifically allocated for road rehabilitation. This initiative is designed to cover all regions affected by flooding, extending beyond the severely impacted areas such as Chefchaouen, Taounate, and Taza, ensuring that the infrastructure needs of all affected provinces are addressed.
During a public session dedicated to oral questions, Minister Baraka highlighted that the efforts are being coordinated closely with the Ministry of Interior and local authorities due to the significant damage sustained by various road segments. He announced that starting this month, requests for proposals will be launched, marking the beginning of road repair works in the impacted areas, including Tetouan. Baraka elaborated on a dedicated program specifically aimed at rehabilitating roads affected by floods, emphasizing that 47 percent of the road budget is earmarked for maintenance activities. Additionally, around 500 kilometers of rural roads will benefit from maintenance operations, a new initiative introduced under the current government.
The minister further stressed the ongoing efforts to repair and enhance several flood-damaged infrastructure projects. A significant list of these facilities has been compiled for rehabilitation and improvement. He noted that the key challenges related to road networks lie in how to develop and enhance their effectiveness. To this end, Baraka revealed that initiatives are underway to strengthen these corridors, particularly by improving connectivity between regions and provinces. Notably, there are projects related to motorways, including the completion of the motorway linking Berrechid to Tit Mellil, and current work on the motorway connecting Safi to Nador, aimed at facilitating access to the Nador West Mediterranean Port.
Additionally, the minister discussed the completion of the continental motorway between Rabat and Casablanca, spanning 59 kilometers, along with ongoing studies concerning various motorway segments throughout the country. With respect to alleviating isolation in provinces, the introduction of a new investment charter has prompted the recognition of the necessity to bolster road connectivity by expanding the network and establishing expressways and dual carriageways. In this context, the minister mentioned the completion of the motorway linking Tiznit to Dakhla, which is currently being extended to reach Guerguerat as part of phase two. He also indicated that the bridge over the Oued Sakia el Hamra is making significant progress in its construction.
Baraka referenced additional motorway projects, including the Fes-Taounate route via National Road No. 8, as well as the motorway between Tetouan and Chefchaouen, where work has commenced on a 5.5-kilometer segment. He noted the motorway between Hajeb and Ifrane, the one connecting Sidi Yahya and Sidi Qasim, and the routes linking Safi with Marrakech, as well as the motorway between Kelaa of Sraghna and Marrakech, and between Ain Ouda and Oued Zem. Each of these projects plays a vital role in enhancing regional connectivity.
In line with the strategic programs established in partnership with local authorities, the Minister of Equipment highlighted the identification of several significant projects aimed at developing road networks and classified roads. He confirmed a new dimension of involvement from the ministry in rural roads, executed in collaboration with local councils or regional authorities.
As reported by hespress.com.
