European Investment Bank and Moroccan National Railways Sign Agreement to Boost Railway Sustainability

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) have signed a new technical assistance agreement aimed at enhancing the sustainability of Morocco’s railway network by developing a comprehensive climate adaptation strategy.

In a joint statement, both parties highlighted that this agreement marks a new step in their ongoing cooperation to strengthen transportation infrastructure, focusing on the growing environmental challenges posed by climate change.

The partnership seeks to assist ONCF in implementing proactive measures to address climate-related risks and develop innovative solutions to improve infrastructure resilience against extreme weather conditions.

The first phase of the project will concentrate on identifying the major climate risks faced by Morocco’s railway network, such as extreme temperatures, floods, strong winds, and erosion.

It will also propose technological and engineering solutions to minimize the negative impacts on infrastructure.

Additionally, the partnership aims to establish a long-term plan to reinforce the network’s resilience and reduce maintenance costs resulting from climate-related disruptions, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of the national railway system.

The EIB, as Europe’s leading climate finance institution, stated that this initiative aligns with its goals of supporting countries in developing sustainable infrastructure.

It also fits within Morocco’s vision to meet its climate objectives and reduce carbon emissions by 2050.

EIB Vice President Ioannis Tsakiris emphasized that the agreement reflects the bank’s commitment to aiding Morocco in its energy transition, particularly in the transport sector, which generates significantly lower emissions than road transportation.

He added that this support would strengthen Morocco’s capacity to face future environmental challenges.

ONCF Director General, Mohamed Rabie Khlie, underscored that the partnership aligns with the organization’s strategy to enhance its infrastructure, noting the vital role of rail transport in achieving sustainable development in Morocco.

source : fesnews media

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