Major Expansion of Morocco's Rail Infrastructure
The National Office of Railways (ONCF) in Morocco has finalized a crucial contract for the construction of five new railway stations as part of the high-speed rail project connecting Kenitra to Marrakech. The deal, awarded to Jet Contractors, is valued at approximately 437.6 million dirhams, excluding taxes, and is a pivotal element of the broader investment strategy aimed at expanding the rail network and enhancing its infrastructure.
This agreement includes the establishment of a high-speed train station in Ben Guerir, along with another regional fast rail station in the same city. Additionally, the project encompasses the construction of stations in Sidi Bou Othmane, Sidi Ghanem, and Marrakech Stadium. These stations are integral to improving the rail transport services along the vital corridor between Kenitra and Marrakech, which is expected to significantly boost passenger convenience and connectivity.
According to the announcement regarding the results of the open tender No. 26T053/PLGV, Jet Contractors was awarded the contract after submitting a financial offer of 437,575,645.85 dirhams, which was the most competitive among the submissions that met the stipulated administrative and technical criteria outlined in the tender documentation. Notably, this winning bid exceeded the ONCF's initial cost estimates for the project, which were set at 385.24 million dirhams, reflecting a difference of over 52.3 million dirhams, or an increase of approximately 13.6% from the anticipated budget.
This contract further solidifies Jet Contractors’ position in Morocco's rail infrastructure projects, as they previously secured a contract in March for the construction of the future railway station at the Grand Stadium of Benslimane, with a financial commitment of 415.5 million dirhams, excluding taxes.
The construction of these new stations is part of the ONCF's extensive investment program, which has a total budget of 96 billion dirhams. This ambitious plan encompasses the development of railway infrastructure, the enhancement of the train fleet, and the improvement of services offered to travelers. The program allocates a substantial financial envelope of 53 billion dirhams for constructing the necessary infrastructure and facilities associated with the high-speed line between Kenitra and Marrakech. Furthermore, it designates 29 billion dirhams for the acquisition of 168 new trains, while 14 billion dirhams are set aside for maintaining service quality and ensuring the sustainability of the existing rail network.
Through these strategic investments, the ONCF aims to expand the national railway network capabilities and enhance intercity connections, aligning with the growing demand for rail transport services and reinforcing the infrastructure readiness for the large-scale projects underway in the Kingdom.
As reported by hespress.com.
