Morocco Highlights Rail Success At Middle East Rail Event
The Director General of the National Office of Railways (ONCF), Mr. Mohamed Rabie KHLIE, presented the remarkable Moroccan experience in the field of rail transport, specifically highlighting the high-speed train (TGV) “Al Boraq,” during the recent Middle East Railway Conference and Exhibition held in Abu Dhabi on May 15-16, 2023.
ONCF manages approximately 4,000km of railway, including about 200km of high-speed LGV lines that comply with international standards. The Moroccan rail network plays a vital role in the socioeconomic fabric of the Kingdom, contributing to its international standing in terms of quality, efficiency, and competitiveness. According to the media statement on the Ministry of Transport and Logistics website, the network transports 46 million passengers and 21 million tons of goods annually.
Within the framework of the transport and logistics sector’s future vision, the development of the railway sector is a priority for Morocco. The ONCF has devised a strategy with clear objectives based on a comprehensive managerial plan. The plan aims to construct 3,800 km of normal-speed lines and 1,500 km of high-speed lines, connecting major cities and important ports and airports across the country. This extensive network will support regional connections and foster integration and coordination between different modes of transport.
The ambitious plan is designed to harmonize with continental and regional connection schemes. Morocco seeks to contribute to the Pan-African Integrated High-Speed Train Network project, the interconnection of Arab countries’ railways, and the continental interconnection project through the Strait of Gibraltar. The plan reflects a commitment to transformative growth and a dedication to advancing the rail transport sector.
The completion of the high-speed train line “Al Boraq,” which connects Tangier to Casablanca, marked a significant milestone in Morocco’s railway system. With an investment of 2.3 billion dollars, the project has had a profound impact on meeting the increasing demand for passenger and freight transport, particularly in the region connected to the Tangier Med port. The “Al Boraq” train, operating since January 2022 with clean energy, has catalysed social and economic dynamism while contributing to urban planning, real estate development, and the economic and tourist attractiveness of the towns along its route.
The ONCF is committed to the gradual implementation of its ambitious master plan. Efforts are underway to extend the high-speed line to Marrakech over a length of 390 km, and detailed studies are being conducted for the construction of a dual-transport high-speed railway line between Marrakech and Agadir, spanning 239 km for both passengers and goods.
During the conference, an agreement for cooperation and exchange of experiences was signed between ONCF and Etihad Rail in the field of railways, highlighting the commitment to knowledge sharing and collaboration.
The Middle East Railway Conference and Exhibition addresses key topics such as innovation, digitization, smart railway stations, logistics services, and environmental sustainability. It brings together ministers and officials from the rail transport sector of various countries, including Morocco, to foster dialogue and advance the industry.