Morocco Invests $300 Million in Kenitra-Marrakech Rail Upgrade
Revitalizing Morocco's Rail Infrastructure
Morocco's National Office of Railways (ONCF) has embarked on an ambitious project to enhance the conventional rail lines between Kenitra and Marrakech. This initiative is crucial for developing the high-speed rail link connecting these key cities.
The project, estimated at MAD 3 billion ($300 million), involves comprehensive civil engineering and superstructure work aimed at boosting rail capacity, improving passenger flow, and enhancing safety. A call for tenders has been issued to facilitate these upgrades.
Strategic Rail Enhancements
The contract is divided into four sections, each tailored to meet local needs along the route:
1. Sidi Ichou to Sidi Bernoussi: With a budget of MAD 561.9 million ($55 million), this section includes upgrades to stations like Kenitra, Sidi Bouknadel, and Rabat Agdal, extending to the future Sidi El Bernoussi station.
2. Sidi El Bernoussi to Casablanca Oasis: This segment, requiring MAD 805 million ($75 million), will connect the new Sidi El Bernoussi station with Casa Port and Casa Voyageurs.
3. Casablanca Oasis to Mohammed V Airport: Valued at MAD 1 billion ($100 million), this stretch encompasses Sidi Maarouf and Bouskoura stations.
4. Sidi El Aidi to Marrakech: With a budget of MAD 624.2 million ($60 million), this section will upgrade stations including Settat and Benguerir, extending to the future Marrakech Stadium station.
The refurbishment involves excavation, platform construction, drainage, track laying, and the installation of overhead power lines.
Earlier this month, the contract to extend the high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech was awarded to a consortium led by French firm Egis Rail. Despite a competitive bid from Spain's Ineco, Egis Rail, in collaboration with Systra and Novec, secured the contract with a bid of MAD 1.385 billion ($138 million).
This significant investment underscores Morocco's commitment to modernizing its rail infrastructure, promising improved services and connectivity for passengers.
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