High-Speed Train Project Connecting Kenitra and Marrakech: A Strategic Support for the National Economy and Citizen Mobility
Transport and Logistics Minister, Abdel Salam Shiki, has confirmed that the high-speed rail line linking Kenitra to Marrakech, which King Mohammed VI launched construction for on Thursday, is a new cornerstone in the development of transportation infrastructure in the Kingdom and a fundamental support for the national economy in all its aspects.
The minister stated in a press statement that this structuring project will contribute to reducing travel times between cities in the Kingdom by up to 70% compared to current durations, thereby enhancing geographical connectivity and facilitating citizen movement between Morocco’s major cities.
The new line aims to directly and swiftly connect Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech. It will also improve connectivity between these cities and the main national airports, with the goal of enhancing integration among various modes of transport.
This project is part of an ambitious railway program requiring total investments of nearly 96 billion dirhams. It includes the construction of the high-speed rail line Kenitra-Marrakech, with a budget of 53 billion dirhams (excluding rolling stock).
The program also encompasses the acquisition of 168 new trains at an estimated cost of nearly 29 billion dirhams, aimed at renewing the current fleet of the national railway company and supporting expansion projects to provide modern and comfortable transport services.
Additionally, a budget of 14 billion dirhams has been allocated to maintain performance levels and enhance urban transport by developing three urban rail networks in the cities of Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, in line with demographic growth and economic and social activity in these urban centers.
This strategic project is expected to bring about a qualitative leap in railway transport in Morocco by improving service quality, reducing regional disparities, and establishing Morocco as a leading platform in railway infrastructure on both the African and Mediterranean levels.
