Revitalizing Public Transport in Grand Agadir
The Grand Agadir Council for Transport and Urban Mobility (GATMU) has officially relaunched the tender for the delegated management of public transport and the first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line in Agadir, with operations set to commence on September 28, 2026. This new tender, identified as the open call for bids No. 2/2026, was initiated on April 1, 2026, and aims to modify the specifications to meet contemporary mobility challenges while expanding competition among national and international operators.
Currently, Alsa City Agadir is maintaining the public transport service under a transitional regime, extending its mandate to ensure uninterrupted public transport services until a future delegate is appointed. The GATMU, which oversees public transport across the Grand Agadir region and surrounding municipalities, previously annulled the tender process No. 5/2025 in accordance with procedural regulations. The newly launched tender reflects a clear intention to adapt the operational framework to current transport issues, thereby fostering a competitive environment.
This update aims to enhance the financial stability of the contract while ensuring operational efficiency. The delegation period is planned for ten years, signifying a long-term commitment to modernizing urban mobility in the area.
Three Phases Leading to Contract Award
The tender process will unfold in three distinct phases: the submission of initial offers, a technical discussion phase, and a final contractual phase with the selected bidder. Interested candidates have until May 15, 2026, to submit their proposals. This timeline is designed to ensure that the new transport network, featuring both bus and BRT services, becomes operational by the target date of September 28, 2026, thereby initiating a new management approach for mobility in Grand Agadir. The tender also builds on tangible advancements made under the current extension contract with Alsa, including the rollout of a new fleet of buses that began service on December 12, 2025, coinciding with the preparations for the African Nations Cup.
Additionally, the transition to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is now operational, with the current operator tasked with preparing for the launch of BRT lines in the coming weeks. This initiative is supported by completed infrastructure, with technical deployments finalized ahead of the launch.
For the foundational BRT line, a fleet of 30 articulated buses, each measuring 18 meters and accommodating 180 passengers, is being employed. Currently, the system is undergoing a 'trial run' phase, which involves testing in real conditions without passengers. This testing phase is crucial for finalizing the coordination between the rolling stock, traffic signal priority, and station infrastructure prior to commencing commercial operations.
With all essential components ready for use by the future contractor, including dedicated platforms and routes along the main axis, the project also incorporates a comprehensive technological ecosystem featuring multimodal stations, operational assistance systems, and integrated ticketing systems. Urban enhancements such as public lighting, green spaces, and a modern maintenance facility further complement the infrastructure. The updated specifications introduce new requirements, particularly regarding digital transformation and maintenance protocols. A strong emphasis is placed on securing information systems and protecting user data. The future delegate will be expected to adhere to strict cleanliness protocols, supported by specialized equipment for bus and station maintenance. This comprehensive approach is paired with a redesign of key performance indicators (KPIs) to focus on service quality, punctuality, and the cleanliness of facilities, which will be central to contract evaluations.
As reported by leseco.ma.
