Significant Infrastructure Development in Marrakech
Marrakech has officially kicked off a substantial road improvement initiative with the commencement of the expansion and duplication of Regional Road 212, which stretches over 2.3 kilometers connecting Mhamid 9 to Oued El Bahja. This ambitious project, backed by a significant investment of 23.5 million dirhams, aims to modernize the local infrastructure, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance the safety of all road users. The endeavor aligns with the broader developmental goals and key structural projects within the Marrakech-Safi region, addressing the challenges posed by urban expansion, population growth, and economic development that have led to increased traffic demands.
According to Rachid Noam, the Director of the Regional Agency for Project Execution in Marrakech-Safi, the project is entirely funded by the region's council. The plan includes expanding the roadway width from the current 9 meters to a generous 14 meters, complemented by dedicated lanes for bicycles and two-wheeled vehicles measuring 1.5 meters in both directions. Additionally, new sidewalks measuring 2 meters wide will be constructed on either side of the road, and the public lighting system will be upgraded to improve visibility and safety during nighttime travel. The road surface will also be renovated with asphalt to enhance driving conditions, ultimately leading to a safer and more comfortable travel experience for all users.
A Community-Driven Response to Traffic Challenges
The execution timeline for this extensive project is set at 12 months; however, Noam optimistically suggests that this period could potentially be shortened to 7 to 8 months, contingent upon resolving certain technical challenges such as the relocation of water, electricity, and telecommunications networks. Local residents and road users, including professional drivers, have expressed their relief and support for the commencement of this project, viewing it as a long-awaited response to the persistent traffic issues plaguing this route, particularly during peak hours. These delays have been exacerbated by the narrowness of the road, lack of dedicated lanes for various user categories, and high traffic density, which significantly increases the risk of accidents.
The community eagerly anticipates that the expansion and duplication of the road, along with improved lighting, sidewalks, and bike lanes, will enhance traffic flow and reduce accident risks. This infrastructure upgrade is poised to protect the lives of road users, shorten travel times, and facilitate access to the tourist area of Agafay, transforming it into a vital artery that can accommodate increased traffic and support the ongoing urban and tourism expansion in the area.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
