The impact of the High-Speed Train on interurban mobility in Morocco on the Tangier-Casablanca route: a qualitative study

Abstract

This article examines the impact of the Moroccan high-speed train on intercity mobility, focusing on Morocco's first High Speed Line linking Tangiers to Casablanca. It sheds light on the experiences of a new clientele drained from the first year of operation of this new high-speed mode of transport since November 2018. These are commuter passengers, including civil servants, employees of state-owned companies or national offices, employees of private companies and corporations, as well as the professions and shopkeepers. Our research focuses on a qualitative analysis aimed at identifying and understanding the determining factors that influence the choice of means of transport for this population. The results of the study show that: time saving, travel quality, the possibility of working remotely on board the train, regularity of timetables, as well as differentiated pricing, and accessibility to intra-urban mobility thanks to a service combining train and car, in addition to the high level of confidence in the rail system, emerge as key elements influencing business users' preference for high-speed rail in Morocco. The study also highlights a number of economic effects, including reduced costs (particularly for executive travel) and the relocation of existing staff for businesses and companies.