Morocco’s largest city has unveiled one of its most ambitious urban projects, the Almohades Underground Tunnel, designed to ease traffic congestion and improve safety in the busy heart of Casablanca.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The tunnel, which runs under the city’s Almohades area, is equipped with 88 closed-circuit television cameras, eight emergency exits, and 600 LED spotlights. City officials say the new infrastructure brings Casablanca closer to the standards of major global cities like Beijing or Paris, where modern road systems keep millions of vehicles moving each day.

A step forward in urban mobility

Casablanca is home to more than 3.5 million people and serves as Morocco’s economic hub. The city struggles daily with heavy traffic, particularly in central areas. Authorities say the new tunnel will help reduce congestion by allowing drivers to move more quickly across one of the busiest parts of the city.

“This tunnel is not just about traffic. It is about modernization and safety,” said a city official at the opening ceremony. “Casablanca is becoming a city with infrastructure that matches its role as a leading financial and cultural capital in Africa.”

The Almohades Underground Tunnel was built with modern engineering techniques. Its security system allows operators to monitor vehicles in real time, and the LED lighting makes it easier for drivers to see clearly, while also reducing energy use.

Safety and surveillance

Safety has been a key priority in the project. The 88 CCTV cameras are connected to a central control room that can respond quickly to accidents or emergencies. The eight exits provide safe escape routes for drivers and passengers in case of fire or other dangers.

Officials say the tunnel is designed to handle thousands of cars each day, while ensuring that any emergency can be managed without major disruption. “We wanted to make sure that people feel safe when they drive here,” the city official said.

Symbol of modern Casablanca

The project has also become a symbol of Morocco’s push for modernization in its major cities. Casablanca has already built new tram lines, expanded roads, and improved public spaces in recent years. The tunnel is seen as part of this wider effort to upgrade infrastructure and improve the daily lives of residents.

Residents welcomed the new tunnel, saying it will save time and make driving less stressful. “Before, traffic in this part of the city was always stuck,” said taxi driver Youssef El Mansouri. “Now, with this tunnel, we can move faster, and we don’t lose so much time.”

Local businesses are also expected to benefit. Shops and offices near the area may see more activity as smoother traffic flow makes it easier for customers and workers to reach them.

Regional impact

Urban planners note that Casablanca’s efforts could serve as a model for other Moroccan cities facing similar challenges. Cities like Rabat, Marrakech, and Tangier also deal with growing populations and more vehicles on the road each year.

“This project shows that Morocco is ready to invest in modern infrastructure,” said transportation expert Karim El Haddad. “Good roads, tunnels, and public transport are essential for the economy. They also help reduce pollution by cutting the time cars spend stuck in traffic.”

Looking ahead

The Almohades Underground Tunnel is only one part of Casablanca’s larger development plan. City leaders are considering more tunnels, bridges, and expanded public transport networks to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population.

For many residents, the tunnel is already seen as a turning point. It is not Beijing in China, nor Paris in France — but Casablanca now has its own world-class underground passage to keep the city moving.