Rabat – Morocco’s Ministry of Transport urged on Monday all citizens to respect the measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19.
The ministry issued a statement on July 27, after Moroccan highways and intercity roads witnessed an unprecedented level of traffic jams.
Citizens found themselves stuck in traffic following a statement from the Moroccan government that banned travel to and from eight major cities.
The statement came less than five hours before the announced deadline, pushing thousands of Moroccans to simultaneously attempt leaving the cities before their closure.
The Ministry of Transport called on citizens to respect authorities’ decisions and follow safety measures.
Transportation of merchandise will continue regularly, despite the government’s recent decision, the ministry assured. The government department recalled the safety requirements for merchandise transportation. The conditions include limiting the seat capacity to only a driver and one passenger.
As for the travel of individuals, the ministry reiterated the safety measures put in place. The measures include limiting the seat capacity on public transportation to 75%, regularly disinfecting vehicles, and wearing face masks for drivers and passengers.
Regarding intercity travel, the Ministry of Transport stressed the recent travel ban to and from eight Moroccan cities. The cities announced in the July 26 statement include Tangier, Tetouan, Fez, Meknes, Casablanca, Berrechid, Settat, and Marrakech.
The Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Health prohibited access to and departure from the cities in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases. The travel ban came only five days before Eid al-Adha. The religious feast represents one of the main opportunities for Moroccans living away from their homes to visit their families.
