A tunnel connecting Malta and Gozo
Making it easier to travel between the two islands
Connecting the Maltese Islands together has been a dream for many commuters who have to go through the hassle of travelling between Malta and Gozo on a daily basis. However, recent studies are showing that this might not be a dream for long; indeed, a tunnel under the Gozo Channel could be constructed in the next years.
The results of a preliminary analysis about the tunnel have just been published, stating that such a project is technically and financially doable, as the construction would take five to seven years to complete with a cost totaling to around €492 million for a three-lane tunnel on the shortest route.
This preliminary study was only the starting point, as although it concluded that the tunnel is feasible, it points out that further studies are required, especially those regarding the impact on the environment, construction methods and costs.
This project is expected to have great implications on the quality of life of Gozitans, as crossing the channel will become much easier. The proposed tunnel reduces average journey times by at least 40 minutes and thus Gozo will become more accessible to locals and tourists alike. This is likely to have a positive impact on the economy and in creating jobs in Gozo, which remains a continuous challenge.