Advancements in Morocco's National Rail Program
The National Office of Railways in Morocco has announced substantial progress in the implementation of the national rail program, following a year since the official launch of the high-speed rail project linking Kenitra and Marrakech. This initiative stands as one of the largest infrastructure projects in the history of transportation within the kingdom, demonstrating a commitment to modernizing the rail system and enhancing connectivity across various regions of the country.
This strategic project is part of a comprehensive national vision aimed at upgrading the rail network, with a total investment of approximately 96 billion dirhams. This funding encompasses the development of the high-speed line, the acquisition of a modern fleet of trains, and the rehabilitation of the existing network to ensure quality and continuity of services. Notably, 53 billion dirhams have been earmarked specifically for the new high-speed line along the Kenitra–Marrakech axis, while 29 billion dirhams are dedicated to the procurement of 168 modern trains. Additionally, 14 billion dirhams will be allocated for the maintenance and enhancement of the current network, underscoring the transformative nature of the railway sector in Morocco.
Field Progress and Future Expectations
In terms of on-ground advancements, the project has seen significant milestones in land expropriation, as well as substantial progress in civil engineering works along the approximately 430-kilometer route. Large quantities of earthworks have been completed, reflecting an accelerated pace facilitated by intensive technical and logistical mobilization. Furthermore, notable progress has been made on engineering structures, including the construction of major bridges and the excavation of significant tunnels in various areas, such as Casablanca, Zenata, and Ain Atiq. The initiation of works for dozens of other structures associated with the rail and road line has also been launched.
Regarding rail equipment, substantial quantities of essential materials, including gravel, iron beams, and rails, have been secured, alongside specialized technical equipment designed for track conversion, as part of the necessary preparations to ensure that construction proceeds according to the established timeline. Concurrently, work has commenced on certain segments of existing lines, with marked progress in laying tracks, while preparations are underway for the introduction of modern signaling systems in the upcoming phase.
As for the passenger stations, architectural designs have been finalized, and the first phase of construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with plans for the remaining stations to commence work in the coming months. This project is expected to serve as a major economic lever, mobilizing approximately 150 companies, a significant portion of which are locally based, thereby enhancing the role of Moroccan enterprises in executing large-scale projects and promoting the transfer of national expertise in infrastructure development.
The monumental scale of this project emphasizes that the high-speed rail line between Kenitra and Marrakech is not merely a transportation initiative but a comprehensive strategic transformation reflecting Morocco's commitment to enhancing sustainable mobility, strengthening economic attractiveness, and supporting regional development across the nation.
As reported by ar.hibapress.com.
