Morocco’s high-speed rail project marks a transformative leap in national infrastructure.
Celebrating its first anniversary, the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) reports substantial advancements in the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line, which spans 430 kilometers. The project, backed by an investment of MAD 96 billion (approximately .6 billion), aims to modernize rail travel and improve connectivity between key cities like Tangier, Rabat, and Marrakech.
Progress on Morocco’s High-Speed Rail Project
Since its launch by King Mohammed VI, the high-speed rail initiative has made significant strides. ONCF has completed land acquisition processes, clearing nearly all necessary rights-of-way. Over 20 million cubic meters of earthworks have been executed, with construction underway for fifteen viaducts and three covered trenches near Casablanca’s airport.
Additionally, various road and rail bridges are in development, demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to enhancing its rail capabilities. The project is designed to revolutionize travel times across the country, making it a pivotal element of Morocco’s infrastructure strategy.
Morocco: Key figures on High-Speed Rail Development
- MAD 96 billion (approximately .6 billion) investment
- 430 kilometers of rail line
- 2.5 million tons of ballast secured
- 800,000 tons of sleepers secured
- Over 100,000 tons of rails secured
- 220 track switches secured
- 168 new-generation trainsets planned
- MAD 53 billion (.3 billion) budget for high-speed line
- MAD 29 billion (.9 billion) for trainsets acquisition
- MAD 14 billion (.4 billion) for existing rail network maintenance
- 5.6 million passengers carried by Al Boraq in its seventh year
Future Developments and Commitments
ONCF has mobilized around 150 companies for the project, with two-thirds being Moroccan. Track-laying efforts have already begun on several segments of the line, and the signaling systems are in the preparatory phase. The design of the train stations is finalized, with construction expected to commence for all stations by July 2026.
This ambitious project not only aims to enhance travel efficiency but also showcases Morocco’s proactive approach to modernizing its rail infrastructure.
Next Steps for Morocco’s Rail Infrastructure
- Continue construction of fifteen viaducts and various bridges
- Commence track-laying on additional segments
- Begin construction of all train stations by July 2026
Morocco’s high-speed rail project is set to redefine travel across the nation.
