His Majesty King Mohammed VI presides over the launch of major railway projects in Casablanca, Morocco
(LVDE) – On September 24, 2025, in Casablanca, King Mohammed VI launched major railway projects worth 20 billion dirhams (approximately €1.88 billion). These initiatives, part of a broader program totaling 96 billion dirhams, aim to transform urban mobility in the metropolis.
Casablanca’s urban landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. On September 24, 2025, King Mohammed VI inaugurated a series of innovative railway projects valued at 20 billion dirhams. These initiatives, designed to improve mobility in Morocco’s economic capital, form part of a comprehensive national railway development strategy with an ambitious budget of 96 billion dirhams.
This vast program addresses critical challenges linked to Casablanca’s rapid population growth and urbanization. As the city continues to attract millions of residents and workers, transportation infrastructure is under increasing pressure. The government’s response includes building new stations and upgrading existing networks. Key projects include the creation of three next-generation stations and ten suburban commuter train stations. This modernization effort seeks to make public transport more efficient and accessible to users.
Funding for these projects is shared between the National Railways Office (ONCF), covering 70% of the costs, and the regional authorities, who are responsible for the remaining 30%. This collaboration is vital to ensuring the success of the initiatives. Beyond new stations, the plan includes the construction of 260 km of new railway lines and the purchase of 48 new trains designed for regional and suburban services. Each train, with a capacity of over 1,000 passengers and a maximum speed of 160 km/h, is tailored to meet rising demand.
A distinctive feature of this program is the involvement of the local industry. South Korean manufacturer Hyundai Rotem, selected to supply the new trains, will establish a factory in Morocco. This represents a significant opportunity for the country, aiming to build a sustainable railway ecosystem and foster medium-term export capacity.
The ambitions of this program go beyond improving transport. They also seek to strengthen the region’s socio-economic development and enhance urban planning. By improving access to peripheral areas, the projects are expected to stimulate economic activity and raise the quality of life for residents.
Through this investment, the Moroccan government demonstrates its determination to prepare for the future. By 2030, the goal is clear: to build a sustainable regional transport system capable of supporting economic growth while addressing environmental challenges.
In sum, the railway projects launched by King Mohammed VI in Casablanca mark the beginning of a new era for urban mobility in Morocco. Combining modernity with sustainability, these initiatives are crucial to meeting the needs of a growing population and positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s railway sector. The development of railway infrastructure is not only a response to today’s challenges but also a strategic investment for the future. Sorelle Ninguem
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