Striving for smart mobility in Morocco: a case of lanes designated to heavy goods vehicles in Casablanca

Abstract

Abstract This article highlights the need to rethink how to manage mobility in Morocco more intelligently, given that it is a major pillar of economic competitiveness. Smart mobility based on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) allows to improve and ensure the optimal use of existing infrastructure before embarking on heavy and irreversible infrastructure projects. The case regarding the separation of the urban traffic and the Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) traffic circulating between Casablanca Port and Zenata Dry Port is a relevant example where smart mobility could provide efficient solutions without building costly tunnels. A dynamic simulation was made using the Aimsun software to quantify the relevance of the proposed lane designated to HGV in the existing road. This simulation allows to visualise congestion sections and quantify the circulation of vehicles and pedestrians. The article presents defined functions and characteristics of the Advanced Traffic Management (ATM) to ensure the optimal operation and efficient setting of the simulation. All appliances, hardware, and sensors that will be set up on-site will help to improve traffic safety, traffic flow, traffic information, and reduce congestion and pollution. This case study illustrates the complexity of managing the flow of goods in cities and suggests how to solve this type of problems using smart mobility. This research proposes reserving a special lane for HGV. ITS will help this cost-optimal alternative, will promote the urban framework of the coastal road, and contribute to sustainable mobility in Casablanca.