ONCF floated global construction tenders for Kénitra - Marrakech High Speed Rail

Rabat, Morocco (Urban Transport News): Moroccan National Railways (ONCF) has taken significant strides towards the realization of the 375km Kénitra - Marrakech high-speed line, issuing tenders for its construction. Reports from local media indicate that the construction work has been segmented into seven packages, ranging from 36km to 64km in length. This transformative project is set to connect major cities including Rabat, Salé, Casablanca, and Marrakech, promising improved connectivity and enhanced transportation services across the region.

The scope of work encompasses the design and construction of a cutting-edge 350km/h railway line, along with the development of modern stations along the route. Additionally, the project includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art rolling stock maintenance facility in Marrakech, as well as the procurement and installation of advanced signalling and telecommunications equipment to ensure operational efficiency and safety.

With the deadline for bids set for June 23, 2024, ONCF is poised to move forward swiftly with the implementation of this ambitious infrastructure project. Among the recent announcements, another tender was unveiled for the construction of a 3.3km single-bore tunnel in Rabat, an essential component of the high-speed line connecting the Bouregreg Valley to Rabat Agdal station. This tunnel project, expected to span 42 months, underscores ONCF's commitment to overcoming geographical challenges and delivering a seamless transportation network.

In line with the broader vision for modernizing Morocco's rail infrastructure, ONCF has initiated steps to develop a new 450ha station in the Riad district of Rabat. These endeavors, including technical studies expected to span 27 months, aim to align with the ambitious timeline set for the 2030 football World Cup, which Morocco is set to co-host with Spain and Portugal. Additionally, ONCF has allocated substantial funds for civil works on the Kénitra - Marrakech line and is actively seeking environmental and social compliance services to ensure sustainable development practices are adhered to throughout the project lifecycle.

Egis, France, has been appointed as the general consultant for the project, overseeing the design process divided into three distinct packages covering various segments of the high-speed line. The extension of Morocco's high-speed network from Tangier to Kénitra, operational since 2018, has already showcased significant benefits, offering improved journey times and enhanced capacity. The forthcoming Kénitra - Marrakech line is poised to build upon this success, further solidifying ONCF's commitment to modernization and facilitating socio-economic development across the region.

Separately, ONCF has confirmed the award of a contract to China Railway Design Corporation (CRDC) for the preliminary design of the Marrakech - Agadir high-speed line, signaling continued momentum towards expanding Morocco's high-speed rail network and enhancing connectivity across the country.