Morocco has officially launched an ambitious rail expansion plan worth approximately $10 billion, aimed at enhancing its transportation infrastructure and supporting its tourism sector.
The initiative, announced by King Mohammed VI, includes the construction of a high-speed rail line connecting key cities by 2030.
Key Takeaways
- Investment Amount: $10 billion (96 billion dirhams) allocated for rail expansion.
- New High-Speed Line: Will connect Kenitra to Marrakesh, covering 430 kilometers.
- Travel Time Reduction: Journey from Tangier to Marrakesh will be cut to under three hours.
- Job Creation: The project is expected to create thousands of jobs in the rail sector.
- Local Manufacturing: Over 40% of train production will occur domestically.
Overview of the Expansion Plan
The rail expansion plan is part of Morocco’s broader strategy to improve its transportation network, particularly in light of its co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.
The new high-speed line will significantly reduce travel times between major cities, enhancing connectivity for both residents and tourists.
The high-speed rail line will:
- Start from Kenitra on the Atlantic coast.
- Pass through Rabat and Casablanca.
- End in Marrakesh, a key tourist destination.
Designed to operate at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour, the new line will allow travelers to journey from Marrakesh to Tangier in just 2 hours and 40 minutes, compared to the current travel time of nearly five hours.
Enhancing National Rail Infrastructure
In addition to the high-speed line, the Moroccan government plans to procure 168 new trains from international manufacturers, including France’s Alstom, Spain, and South Korea. This fleet will include:
- 18 trains for the high-speed line.
- 40 trains for intercity routes.
- 60 trains for rapid suburban services.
- 50 trains for metropolitan transit in major cities.
This expansion aims to double the number of cities served by the rail network to 43 by 2040, covering 87% of the Moroccan population.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The rail expansion is not only about improving transportation but also about fostering economic growth and sustainability. The project is expected to:
- Create thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the rail sector.
- Support local manufacturing, with plans for a new production facility to produce over 40% of the trains domestically.
- Contribute to Morocco’s environmental goals by promoting energy-efficient rail transport, aligning with the country’s commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.
Future Prospects
Morocco’s investment in rail infrastructure reflects a long-term vision for economic development and regional connectivity.
The successful implementation of the high-speed rail program positions Morocco as a leader in rail transport in Africa, with potential to offer consultancy and expertise to other nations looking to develop similar systems.
As the project progresses, it will not only enhance domestic mobility but also strengthen Morocco’s position as a key player in regional infrastructure development, paving the way for future investments in various sectors, including renewable energy and digital connectivity.
