Major Infrastructure Development in Laâyoune
In Laâyoune, the ambitious construction of the longest road viaduct in Morocco, spanning the Sakia El Hamra River, is making significant headway, now standing at 57% completion. This monumental project is part of the strategic Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, which stretches over 1,055 kilometers and aims to enhance connectivity across the southern provinces of Morocco while strengthening trade with the broader African continent. The project, which has garnered an investment exceeding 9 billion dirhams, includes a total of 16 major structures, with the Sakia El Hamra viaduct alone accounting for 1.375 billion dirhams of that total.
The viaduct measures an impressive 1,648 meters in length and 21.4 meters in width, constructed using advanced prestressed concrete techniques that involve successive cantilevering. This engineering endeavor relies on 14 supporting piles, with some reaching heights of 46.5 meters, and deep foundations extending between 24 and 46 meters below the ground. The scale of this undertaking is underscored by the quantities of materials required, estimated at around 70,000 cubic meters of concrete and 12,000 tons of steel, indicating the complexity and technical challenges involved in this construction.
Strategic Importance and Environmental Considerations
According to M’bark Fancha, the central director of the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, this project is not only crucial for logistical, economic, and territorial development but also plays a vital role in enhancing road safety and traffic fluidity. The expressway is already yielding positive effects on transportation conditions, facilitating movement for local populations, and attracting investments. The viaduct is particularly essential as it will streamline transit between northern and southern Morocco, alleviating urban traffic pressure, enhancing the safety of road travel, and mitigating disruptions during seasonal floods of the intermittent river.
Currently, around 900 personnel are engaged in this project, operating in three shifts to ensure continuous progress. The construction is currently facing a critical phase that requires meticulous oversight, especially in the elevated structures that demand precise execution and quality control of materials. Furthermore, the teams involved are mindful of the region's climatic conditions, including high temperatures, salinity, and winds, which are integral to the structure's durability.
Moreover, environmental preservation is a significant aspect of this project, particularly due to the ecological value of the Sakia El Hamra River, designated as a Ramsar site since April 2019. This area is part of the western Palearctic migratory route, serving as a crucial habitat for various animal and plant species, including vulnerable waterbird species like the flamingo and the marbled teal. Measures are being implemented to protect this ecosystem during construction, ensuring minimal impact on local biodiversity.
Beyond its transportation function, the viaduct is poised to enhance Laâyoune's attractiveness, contributing to the modernization of its urban landscape while safeguarding the environment. This initiative aligns with a broader vision to upgrade infrastructure in the southern provinces, promoting socio-economic development and reinforcing their role as a critical junction between Morocco and its African hinterland.
As reported by telquel.ma.
