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Economy

Ceuta-Morocco Border Corridor Undergoes Comprehensive Upgrade with €3.5 Million EU Grant

Wednesday 22 May 2024 - 09:50

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In a bid to enhance safety and optimize traffic flow, the access road connecting Ceuta, Spain, to the Moroccan border will undergo a comprehensive €3.5 million (37.7 million dirhams) upgrade. This project, funded by the European Union's Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan, aims to transform the heavily congested corridor into a more user-friendly and efficient thoroughfare for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

According to reports from the Spanish news agency EFE, the Government Delegation identified several areas for improvement along the route, citing the high traffic volume, which averages 13,200 vehicles daily. This figure surges during the summer months due to Operation Marhaba, a large-scale border crossing operation between Spain and Morocco.

To address these challenges, the project will reconfigure the existing road into a three-lane layout, with two lanes dedicated to traffic heading towards the border and one lane for traffic leading away. Each lane will have a generous width of 3 meters, ensuring ample space for vehicles of all sizes to maneuver smoothly.

However, the upgrades extend beyond vehicular infrastructure. To promote alternative modes of transportation, the project includes the construction of wide sidewalks on both sides of the road, ranging from 1.5 to 2 meters in width. This will create a safer and more inviting environment for pedestrians and cyclists.

The scope of work encompasses more than just adding lanes and sidewalks. The entire road will be resurfaced, and improvements will be made to the overall cross-section, ensuring optimal traffic flow. Additionally, new urban furniture, ramps, and access steps will be installed, ensuring accessibility for all users, regardless of their mobility needs.

This EU-funded initiative represents a significant stride towards enhancing safety and accessibility along a crucial border corridor. The improved road infrastructure is poised to benefit not only the residents of Ceuta and Morocco but also the seamless flow of goods and tourism between the two nations, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.