Morocco Initiates Construction of $139 Million Viaduct in Laayoune

Tuesday 30 July 2024 - 16:10

Morocco has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure project with the commencement of construction on a $139 million viaduct in Laayoune. This significant undertaking is a pivotal component of the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway project, designed to enhance connectivity and bolster the region's infrastructure.

On Sunday, Nizar Baraka, Morocco's Minister of Equipment and Water, inaugurated the construction of the country’s most extensive and longest road viaduct. Situated over Oued Sakia El Hamra near the Laayoune bypass, this new project will require a substantial investment of MAD 1.38 billion (approximately $139 million).

The viaduct, stretching 1,648 meters in length and 21.4 meters in width, is slated to be completed within 40 months. It is designed to mitigate traffic interruptions caused by flooding, bolster road safety, and reduce the environmental impact across the Laayoune region.

In a press statement, Baraka emphasized the project’s distinction as the largest of its kind in Morocco. The construction launch ceremony, which coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Throne Day, featured detailed updates on the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway project, now in its final stages.

Moroccan companies, both local and national, have been tasked with building various segments of the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, including the viaduct. The project boasts a completion rate of over 97%, including 980 kilometers of expressway and 15 major structures now open to traffic.

The Tiznit-Guelmim section, extending 114 kilometers with a MAD 2 billion ($200 million) investment, is 87% complete. The Guelmim-Laayoune segment, stretching 441 kilometers and costing MAD 6 billion ($600 million), has been completed and recently opened to traffic. Meanwhile, the Laayoune-Dakhla section, covering 500 kilometers with a total investment of MAD 1 billion ($100 million), has already been finished.

The launch ceremony was attended by Abdeslam Bekrate, Wali of the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra region and governor of Laâyoune province, M’bark Fancha, director of the provisional management for RN1 from Tiznit to Dakhla, along with other local officials.

This initiative underscores Morocco’s commitment to continuing the development of the region’s potential and infrastructure, ensuring enhanced connectivity and improved quality of life for its residents.