Casablanca Rail: World Bank’s $350M Boost for Morocco’s ONCF

World Bank Approves $350 Million to Revitalize Casablanca Rail Network

The World Bank has greenlit a $350 million financing package designed to revolutionize Casablanca’s transport landscape. This initiative, known as the Greater Casablanca Mobility and Logistics Hub, aims to enhance access to employment and essential services by significantly improving passenger rail services within the metropolitan area. The project, announced recently, will support the modernization and expansion of the railway infrastructure, with a particular focus on climate resilience and increased freight capacity. The funding targets improvements to the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) network, the Moroccan national railway operator, which views Casablanca as its primary hub. This investment will benefit over 560,000 residents by June 2031, improving their access to jobs, health, and other essential services, while simultaneously tackling traffic congestion and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the Casablanca-Settat region. This article delves into the specifics of the project, exploring its multifaceted approach to sustainable transport, infrastructure upgrades, and the potential for economic growth within the region.

Modernizing the Metro: The SIR Programme and its Impact

A core component of the World Bank’s financing is the support for the Service Intra-métropolitain Rapproché (SIR) programme, a key initiative aimed at establishing an electrified passenger rail service. This new line will connect the urban center of Casablanca with its suburban areas, including Zenata, Mohammedia, Nouaceur, and Bouskoura. The SIR program will directly address the mobility challenges faced by residents in these increasingly congested areas. Furthermore, the project includes the modernization of an existing 73-km rail line. This refurbishment will focus on enhancing the existing infrastructure, including electrical systems, signalling, and overall capacity, incorporating climate-resilient features. The enhancements are expected to improve the efficiency of the rail network, reduce congestion on the current lines, and boost freight transport capabilities, particularly to the strategically important port of Casablanca.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Station Development

Beyond track and service improvements, the project emphasizes the development of integrated transport hubs. A crucial element of the project involves constructing or upgrading 15 multimodal train stations. These stations will integrate Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) strategies and ensure universal accessibility, reflecting a commitment to creating inclusive and user-friendly transport infrastructure. The TOD approach aims to create vibrant, mixed-use areas around stations, encouraging sustainable urban development. Additionally, the project will focus on improving logistics facilities in Greater Casablanca, focusing on rail-centric logistics at Ain Sebaa and enhancing connectivity around a new logistics zone in Zenata. This focus on station development and improved logistics is essential for the economic development of the region.

Boosting Capacity and Driving Economic Growth

The anticipated benefits of this World Bank initiative extend far beyond enhanced transport efficiency. By June 2031, the SIR programme is projected to provide substantial improvements in various areas. Improved access to sustainable transport infrastructure will greatly increase the mobility options for over 560,000 residents. Moreover, the project promises to significantly enhance job accessibility, with a 7% increase in workplace locations reachable by passenger rail services within 45 minutes. It is also expected to improve access to essential services, with a 7.3% increase in service locations within the same travel time. The Casablanca-Settat region is a key economic driver in Morocco, and this project promises to help the region realize its full economic potential. By tackling key challenges such as constrained mobility, the project will reduce traffic congestion, GHG emissions, and facilitate increased access to jobs, health services, and other essential public services.

Financial Planning and Sustainability

The World Bank’s financing will also provide crucial support for the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF). This support will strengthen their planning and financial capabilities in managing and expanding railway infrastructure. The focus on sustainability will incorporate modern design and construction methods, the upgrade of existing infrastructure, and climate-resilient features. The goal is to create a resilient and sustainable transport network capable of supporting future growth. The ONCF has emphasized its commitment to environmental sustainability through the use of efficient technologies and the adoption of sustainable practices in its operations, in line with Morocco’s broader sustainability goals.

Conclusion

The World Bank’s $350 million investment in the Greater Casablanca Mobility and Logistics Hub represents a pivotal step towards modernizing and expanding Morocco’s railway infrastructure. By supporting the SIR programme, upgrading existing lines, and developing integrated multimodal stations, this initiative promises to significantly enhance the quality of life for residents in the Casablanca-Settat region. The improvements in job accessibility and access to essential services, coupled with reduced traffic congestion and lower greenhouse gas emissions, underscore the project’s multifaceted benefits. The emphasis on climate resilience, infrastructure improvements, and capacity increases positions the ONCF to become a vital force in the nation’s economic advancement. Looking ahead, this project’s success could serve as a model for similar urban transport initiatives across Africa and beyond, emphasizing the importance of sustainable transport solutions. The project will not only modernize the rail network but also bolster the broader economy of the Casablanca-Settat region, with implications for logistics, urban development, and social inclusion. The project’s successful implementation will play a vital role in creating a more sustainable and inclusive future for the people of Morocco.