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Economy

Morocco's Railway System Set for Climate-Resilient Upgrade with EIB Partnership

Thursday 10 - 15:25

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In a significant move towards sustainable transportation, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Morocco's Office of Railways (ONCF) have joined forces to enhance the climate resilience of Morocco's railway network. This partnership, formalized through a technical assistance agreement, aims to develop a comprehensive strategy for adapting the country's rail infrastructure to the challenges posed by climate change.

The collaboration between EIB and ONCF represents a crucial step in Morocco's ongoing efforts to modernize its transportation sector while addressing environmental concerns. EIB Vice President Ioannis Tsakiris emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it demonstrates the bank's commitment to supporting Morocco's energy transition and infrastructure adaptation efforts.

Central to this partnership is the recognition of railways as a key player in achieving Morocco's climate goals. According to Tsakiris, rail transport emits up to 80% less CO2 than road alternatives, underscoring its potential to significantly reduce the country's carbon footprint.

ONCF General Director Mohamed Rabie Khlie expressed enthusiasm for the agreement, viewing it as an extension of the organization's ongoing adaptation strategy. He stressed the importance of developing efficient and resilient infrastructure to solidify railways as the backbone of sustainable mobility in Morocco.

The collaborative effort will focus on several key areas:

1. Assessing climate risks to the Moroccan railway network, including extreme weather events such as high temperatures and strong winds.

2. Designing tailored adaptation solutions for vulnerable areas and infrastructure to mitigate potential damage.

3. Developing a long-term strategy to enhance network resilience, thereby reducing future costs associated with climate-related damage and operational disruptions.

4. Employing recognized climate risk assessment methods to classify infrastructure based on vulnerability and propose appropriate resilience-boosting solutions.

This initiative aligns with Morocco's broader commitment to upgrading its infrastructure in the face of climate challenges. It complements other national efforts, such as the country's annual $1.4 billion investment in road infrastructure improvements and safety programs.

As Morocco continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable development within the region, this partnership between EIB and ONCF serves as a model for integrating climate considerations into critical infrastructure projects. By prioritizing resilience and adaptation, Morocco is taking proactive steps to ensure its transportation network can withstand future environmental challenges while contributing to the country's climate goals.

The success of this initiative could have far-reaching implications, potentially inspiring similar projects across North Africa and beyond. As countries worldwide grapple with the realities of climate change, Morocco's forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development may well become a blueprint for sustainable transportation strategies in the 21st century.