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Economy

German and Chinese Firms Secure Crucial Contracts for Morocco's High-Speed Rail Project

Tuesday 08 - 10:16

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Morocco's national railway operator, ONCF, has awarded significant contracts to German and Chinese companies for the supply of essential components in the country's ambitious high-speed rail expansion project. This development marks a major step forward in enhancing Morocco's transportation infrastructure, particularly along the vital Kénitra-Marrakech corridor.

Key Contract Details

German Contribution: Vossloh Cogifer, a leading German rail technology company, has been awarded a contract worth MAD 487 million (approximately $47.4 million). Their role involves providing switches and crossings for the new high-speed rail track, crucial elements for ensuring safe and efficient operations at junctions and intersections.

Chinese Involvement: China Railway Shanhaiguan Bridge, a major player in infrastructure, secured a contract valued at MAD 89.7 million (about $9 million). This agreement covers the supply of turnouts for the conventional line that will run parallel to the new high-speed route.

Cost Efficiency: The total investment for both contracts amounts to MAD 577 million ($56.2 million), representing a more cost-effective solution compared to the initial estimate of MAD 638 million ($62.2 million).

Project Impact and Benefits

The Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed rail expansion is set to deliver significant improvements to Morocco's transportation landscape:

- Reduced Travel Time: The journey between Kenitra and Marrakech is expected to decrease from 4.5 hours to just 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Economic Boost: The project aims to stimulate tourism and economic development in the regions connected by the line.
- Modernization: This initiative is part of a broader strategy to upgrade Morocco's transportation infrastructure, including the construction of new high-speed lines and the improvement of existing routes.

Broader Implications

ONCF's investment in the high-speed rail network reflects Morocco's commitment to modernizing its national infrastructure. Beyond the physical improvements, the railway operator is also focusing on enhancing service quality through the introduction of new train models and advanced ticketing systems.

This project not only represents a significant technological leap for Morocco's rail network but also showcases the country's ability to attract international expertise and investment in its infrastructure development efforts.

As Morocco continues to position itself as a leader in African infrastructure development, projects like this high-speed rail expansion are likely to serve as benchmarks for similar initiatives across the continent.