Heavy Tourist Influx Causes Traffic Chaos in Northern Morocco’s Coastal Cities

Motorists are facing traffic difficulties, slowdowns and sometimes even several kilometers of traffic jams in the cities and regions of the North, as well as the tourist areas of Bouznika, Skhirat, Mohammedia and their surroundings. These difficulties are mainly due to the lack of multiple access points in these cities, leading to a massive accumulation of cars at the entry points. The situation has worsened with the increase in the number of local and international tourists, including Moroccans living abroad, who are flocking to these regions to enjoy the beaches and tourist sites.

The consequences of the heavy influxes on the roads are enormous. These traffic jams create an environment conducive to immoral and illegal practices by some drivers. Some bypass the queues in disregard of the Highway Code, thus increasing the chaos and consequently exposing all motorists to the risk of road accidents. The health of motorists and passengers could also be affected, as they wait for a long time in the queues under the sun.

The traffic jams could also have a negative impact on the tourism and economic sectors. The delay in the arrival of tourists at their destinations negatively impacts the travel experience, which could lead to a decrease in the number of tourists in the future. Moreover, the traffic jams increase fuel costs and carbon emissions, which affects the environment.