Reasoning Behind Price Hikes in Public Transport
Abdel-Samad Qiyouh, the Minister of Transport and Logistics in Morocco, has recently defended the planned increases in public transport fares, attributing them to the unusual demand experienced during festive periods. He explained that transport operators are entitled to raise prices by up to 20% due to the significant number of empty buses returning after transporting passengers, emphasizing that the surge in travel necessitates careful coordination at bus stations. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of providing the necessary licenses to ensure the continuity of services and meet the growing demand from citizens.
During a session of oral questions at the House of Representatives on Monday, Qiyouh noted that the National Office of Railways has expressed its readiness to increase the frequency of trains between Oujda and Marrakech, as well as for 'Supra Tours' buses heading to Agadir and other cities that see a notable influx of travelers during the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebrations.
Enhancements in Air Travel and Infrastructure Development
The Minister highlighted that, in collaboration with local authorities, there is a concerted effort to enhance oversight and ensure that sufficient transport options are available to the public during peak times, particularly during this busy period. He also mentioned that the government has responded to requests for exceptional closures of state administrations and local authorities, allowing travelers to return safely to their home cities.
Regarding air transport, Qiyouh revealed that he chaired a meeting of the Board of Directors of the National Airports Office earlier on Monday. He confirmed that the airport development program set for 2030 is progressing smoothly. This year alone, Moroccan airports have accommodated approximately 36.3 million passengers, both arriving and departing. The revenue generated has reached about 6 billion dirhams, with a net profit nearing 1.3 billion dirhams, along with nearly 265,000 flight movements and 100,000 tons of air cargo.
Qiyouh also discussed the airport development initiatives, which include the construction of a new terminal at Casablanca Airport and the expansion of terminals in Agadir, Marrakech, Rabat, Tangier, Fez, and Tetouan, as these cities are slated to host events for the 2030 World Cup. He emphasized that the significance of this initiative extends beyond the event itself, with aspirations to attract 34 million tourists by 2035. This goal entails improving the flow of passengers within airports, treating them as valued customers in direct coordination with the National Airports Office.
Among the measures being implemented, Qiyouh noted the simplification of procedures and the removal of certain technical barriers, such as screening devices that previously hindered access to airports. The objective is to ensure that the entire process from disembarking from the aircraft to exiting the airport does not exceed 30 minutes, including baggage claim and immigration procedures.
As reported by hespress.com.
