Casablanca Railway Development Program: A Significant Leap Forward
Agadir – The railway development program in Casablanca, Morocco, has entered an active implementation phase, marking a pivotal moment one year after its initiation by King Mohammed VI. This ambitious project, as reported by the National Railway Office (ONCF), aims to revolutionize the railway infrastructure of the region with substantial investments amounting to MAD 20 billion. This initiative is part of a larger vision for Morocco's railway transformation slated for completion by 2030, which carries a total budget of MAD 96 billion.
The primary objective of the Casablanca program is to expand the metropolitan railway network to enhance connectivity between key residential, economic, and transportation hubs. This comprehensive initiative encompasses the construction of three state-of-the-art railway stations, the establishment of ten new Metropolitan Local Train stations, the upgrading of five existing stations, and the development of 260 kilometers of new railway lines. Furthermore, the project plans for the construction or expansion of 50 engineering structures, two technical centers, five maintenance facilities, and the procurement of 48 new trains dedicated to local and regional services.
Major Station Developments and Expanded Local Services
The ONCF has announced that construction has commenced on three flagship stations: Casablanca-South, Mohammed V Airport, and the Hassan II Stadium. These projects are anticipated to be completed within 24 months. The Casablanca-South station is poised to become a major rail and intermodal hub, featuring six platforms and ten railway tracks that will accommodate Al Boraq high-speed trains, long-distance services, and regional and local trains. Additionally, this station will seamlessly connect with Casablanca's tramway, high-level bus services, and taxi services, thereby facilitating a smooth interchange between various modes of transport.
At Mohammed V Airport, the new railway station will directly link the airport to the Casablanca railway network, enhancing accessibility between the airport, the city of Casablanca, and the surrounding economic and urban areas. This facility will comprise four platforms and seven tracks, with two tracks designated for the conventional railway line, two for the high-speed line, and three for the Aéroexpress service. The station will connect directly to the airport terminal while also providing access from the city towards the Nouaceur area.
Meanwhile, the Hassan II Stadium station in Benslimane will cater to passengers attending large-scale events, including those associated with the 2030 World Cup. This station will feature two platforms and four tracks designed for high-speed trains during significant events, along with five platforms and six tracks for local services that will connect Benslimane to municipalities throughout the Casablanca and Rabat regions.
The program also includes the construction of ten new stations intended to enhance local railway services, bringing them closer to residential and economic zones across Casablanca. The ONCF has confirmed that stations are currently under construction in various areas, including Mohammedia Faculties, Zenata Industrial Zone, Zenata New Town, Sidi Bernoussi, Ain Sebaa, Hay Mohammadi, Mers Sultan, Casa Oasis, Sidi Maarouf, and Nouaceur New Town. These new facilities will adhere to a unified architectural design, encompassing passenger reception and sales areas, waiting spaces, and essential technical and safety infrastructure required for their operation. The establishment of these stations aims to improve access to rail services significantly and bolster connections between the areas where people live and work.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
