Morocco’s National Office of Railways (ONCF) has announced a brand new project to upgrade the conventional rail lines between Kenitra and Marrakech.
According to reports, this initiative is integral to the development of the high-speed rail line (LGV) connecting the two cities.
A call for tenders has been issued for civil engineering and superstructure works on the conventional rail lines, with the project estimated to cost approximately MAD 3 billion ($300 million).
These upgrades are designed to enhance rail capacity on this specific route while improving passenger traffic flow and safety.
Key Rail Upgrade Segments
The project’s contract is divided into four distinct sections, each addressing a different segment of the rail line with investments varying based on local requirements.
The first section, covering the stretch from Sidi Ichou to Sidi Bernoussi, is valued at MAD 561.9 million ($55 million).
This segment includes the upgrade of intermediate stations such as Kenitra, Sidi Bouknadel, Sale Tabriquet, Rabat Agdal, Temara, and Mohammedia, and extends from Sidi Ichou to the future Sidi El Bernoussi station.
The second section, spanning from Sidi El Bernoussi to the Casablanca Oasis station, requires an investment of MAD 805 million ($75 million).
This segment will pass through key stations like Casa Port and Casa Voyageurs, linking the future Sidi El Bernoussi station with the existing Casablanca Oasis station.
The third section covers the stretch between Casablanca Oasis and Mohammed V Airport station, with an investment of MAD 1 billion ($100 million), including stops at Sidi Maarouf and Bouskoura.
The fourth and final section extends from Sidi El Aidi station to Marrakech, with a budget of MAD 624.2 million ($60 million). This segment will see upgrades to stations such as Settat, Benguerir, and the future Marrakech Stadium station.
The refurbishing work will also include a range of critical tasks such as excavation, platform construction, civil engineering, drainage, track laying, and the installation of overhead power lines.
Earlier this month, the contract for the extension of the high-speed rail line from Kenitra to Marrakech was awarded to a consortium led by the French firm Egis Rail, according to Africa Intelligence.
Spain’s Ineco submitted a competitive bid of MAD 1.309 billion ($132 million). However, Egis Rail, in partnership with Systra and Novec, secured the contract with a bid of MAD 1.385 billion ($138 million).
