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The idea of a tunnel connecting Europe to Africa via the Strait of Gibraltar is not new. Since the first proposals in the 1930s by the Spanish government, this ambitious project has attracted interest, but has also encountered considerable technical and financial challenges. Recently, however, promising developments have revived hopes of making this vision a reality.
That week Moroccan National Society for Straits Studies (SNED) announced significant progress in the construction of this transcontinental tunnel. Work is underway to assess the necessary financing as well as the strategic aspects of the project. This initiative, which recently gained traction, was highlighted during a meeting between the Moroccan Minister of Water and Equipment, Nizar Barakaand the Spanish Minister of Transport, Oscar Puentelast March.
The proposed tunnel would stretch an impressive 28 kilometers, with an underwater section reaching a maximum depth of 475 meters. Connecting Punta Paloma, west of Tarifa in Spain, to Malabata, north of Tangier in Morocco, this project could radically transform trade between Europe and Africa.
Although the exact cost of this mammoth undertaking remains to be determined, some estimates put the colossal figure at 8 billion euros. However, these investments could be largely offset by the economic and logistical advantages that this tunnel would offer. The Spanish Society for Studies on Fixed Communications across the Strait of Gibraltar (SECEGSA) predicts that it could transport up to 12.8 million passengers per year, as well as 13 million tonnes of goods between the two continents, each year.
Besides the obvious economic benefits, this tunnel would have a significant impact on travel between Europe and Africa. By reducing the travel time between Madrid and Casablanca to just 5.5 hours, it would make trade between the two continents faster and more efficient. Currently, flights between these two cities take around two hours, while driving, including the ferry crossing, requires around 12 hours.
However, completing this project is not without its challenges. The complex geology of the Strait of Gibraltar, as well as the proximity of the Azores-Gibraltar geological fault, pose considerable technical problems. Additionally, the region is prone to seismic activity, which adds another layer of complexity to tunnel construction and maintenance.
Despite these challenges, recent history shows a renewed interest in this emblematic project. Advances in technology and advancements in engineering could make what was once considered impossible achievable. Additionally, the announcement that the 2030 World Cup could be held in Portugal, Spain and Morocco has also spurred attention on transport infrastructure between these regions.
