Economy

Morocco Allocates $1.8 Billion Annually to Enhance Road Infrastructure

Friday 19 July 2024 - 13:00

Morocco is dedicating an impressive annual investment of MAD 18 billion ($1.8 billion) to upgrade its road infrastructure, according to Minister of Equipment, Nizar Baraka. The minister shared this information during a national symposium on road safety held in Rabat on Wednesday.

Baraka emphasized that road operation and safety programs are at the forefront of his ministry's agenda. He noted that the country has allocated a substantial budget averaging over one billion annually over the past five years to these initiatives.

At the same event, Minister of Transport, Mohamed Abdeljalil, highlighted Morocco's ambitious national road safety strategy for 2017-2026. This strategy focuses on securing road infrastructure and achieving significant progress across various levels. However, Abdeljalil acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly the recurring road accidents that plague the nation.

Abdeljalil stressed the need for innovative mechanisms based on thorough assessments of current measures to address these challenges. He underscored that road safety must be a priority, noting that roads are shared spaces that should ensure the right to safe movement for all users.

Recent data from Morocco's General Directorate for National Security (DGSN) revealed a grim snapshot of the situation: between June 24 and 30, at least 16 people were killed in fatal road accidents. Additionally, 2,446 others were injured, with 97 of them reported to be in critical condition. The DGSN attributed these accidents primarily to driver inattention, speeding, and failures to maintain a safe distance from pedestrians.

As Morocco continues to invest heavily in its road infrastructure, the government remains committed to enhancing road safety and reducing the number of accidents through strategic planning and innovative solutions.