The European Investment Bank and the national railway operator of Morocco, ONCF, have signed an important cooperation agreement. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Railway Adaptation
Photo, source: www.railwaysafrica.com

This document aims to provide technical assistance in developing a strategy to adapt Moroccan railways to climate change. The agreement, signed on October 9, is part of a long-standing partnership focused on developing a more sustainable transportation system.

Warehouse Logistics Growth Driven by E-commerce Expansion Abroad

ONCF plans to use this cooperation to assess climate risks threatening the country’s railway network. The main focus will be on the impact of extreme weather events, such as sharp temperature changes, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The goal of these activities is to ensure the railway system’s ability to withstand various negative environmental factors.

The next phase will involve creating adaptation solutions for the most vulnerable infrastructure. These measures will significantly reduce damage risks and minimize the potential effects of climate change. The strategy is also aimed at strengthening the long-term resilience of the railway network, helping reduce repair costs and minimize service interruptions.

The EIB’s technical assistance is based on a proven climate risk assessment methodology. Within the framework of this 24-month partnership, detailed mapping and analysis of vulnerable areas of the railway infrastructure will be conducted. This will ultimately lead to the development of technical recommendations to enhance network resilience.

For the EIB, this agreement is part of a global program to support environmentally-friendly transport. The bank actively participates in creating sustainable transport infrastructure that aligns with Morocco’s climate goals. The country aims to reduce carbon emissions by 2050, and the railway network plays a key role in this process.

EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris stated that this partnership would support Morocco’s efforts to adapt its transport infrastructure to climate change. The railway system, which emits 80% less CO2 compared to road transport, is a key element in achieving these goals. He also expressed confidence that the technical assistance would make Morocco’s railways safer and more environmentally sustainable.

Mohamed Rabie Khlie, ONCF’s CEO, noted that the agreement with the EIB would help implement a strategy for sustainable railway network development. ONCF is committed to making Moroccan railways the main platform for environmentally-friendly mobility in the future.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Serbia Receives EBRD Loan for Railway Modernization to Improve Infrastructure

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit