Major Milestone Achieved in Laâyoune's Bridge Construction
The construction of the bridge over the Oued Sakia El Hamra in Laâyoune, projected to be the longest bridge in Morocco, has now exceeded the 50% completion mark. As of July 25, 2026, the project employs approximately 850 workers, including over 35 engineers and experts, who are working diligently to progress into a critical phase of building the prestressed concrete deck. This monumental structure, measuring 1,560 meters in length, is designed with a lifespan of a century, aimed at enhancing the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway and boosting the economic development of Laâyoune.
The construction activities are ongoing at a consistent pace, operating around the clock to ensure timely completion of what will be Morocco's longest bridge, which spans the Oued Sakia El Hamra in Laâyoune. "The project is currently recording a completion rate exceeding 50%," confirms Mbarek Fancha, the central project director for the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway. This stage marks the most delicate and sensitive architectural phase, focusing on the construction of the bridge deck using the prestressed concrete technique.
"This crucial phase requires exceptional equipment and a high level of specialized engineering knowledge, considering its direct impact on the structure's strength and durability," explains Fancha. The project’s impressive human mobilization includes 850 workers, who are organized into three rotating shifts to meet contractual deadlines while ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
Facing Challenges in Construction
In an interview with Le360, Mbarek Fancha discussed the significant climatic and natural challenges that the technical teams are encountering in the region. Among the primary difficulties are high salinity levels affecting materials and structures, strong winds, and extreme temperatures, along with issues related to sand accumulation, particularly during operations conducted at staggering heights of up to 50 meters. He emphasized that overcoming these challenges necessitated the adoption of advanced technical solutions and the maintenance of constant logistical support.
Fancha also shared technical details and dimensions of the project, noting that the total construction cost of the bridge amounts to 1.4 billion dirhams. This monumental structure stretches over 1,560 meters and boasts a width of 21.4 meters. "The deep foundations, anchored 50 meters underground, have already been completed. These technical specifications align with the design adopted for the structure, ensuring it possesses the strength and durability for at least 100 years," elaborates Mohamed Belfarhounia, the bridge conditioning manager.
This infrastructural project is part of the comprehensive development model initiated by King Mohammed VI in 2015 for the southern provinces. It is a vital link in the roadway axis of the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, which is anticipated to reduce distances and facilitate traffic. Furthermore, it will enhance Laâyoune's positioning as an economic hub connecting the north and south of the Kingdom, while also providing a land corridor into the African continent. This development coincides with tangible advancements in the Dakhla Atlantique port project, which is set to become the primary maritime access point to sub-Saharan Africa.
As reported by es.le360.ma.
