Interaction between Transport Systems and Regional Development: Analytical Insights from the Casablanca

Transportation plays a central role in shaping regional development, serving as a strategic vector for territorial cohesion, economic integration, and sustainable mobility.This study investigates the relationship between transport infrastructure and regional development in the Casablanca metropolitan area, Morocco's economic capital.The objective is to assess the effects of recent public transport investments-particularly tramway and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems-on accessibility, environmental performance, and spatial equity.Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative case study approach based on document analysis, urban mobility data, and field observations.The findings reveal significant modal shifts from private vehicles to public transit, a 33% reduction in average travel times, and a 37.5% decrease in CO emissions between 2019 and 2024.However, challenges persist, including system saturation, unequal access in peripheral zones, and governance fragmentation.To address these limitations, the paper proposes an integrated planning framework that combines inclusive territorial strategies with digital tools for real-time traffic management and multimodal coordination.The study offers actionable insights for policymakers and urban planners in the Global South seeking to design resilient and equitable transport systems.It contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable urban development through infrastructure-led mobility transitions.