Would building a tunnel to Gozo cause environmental problems?

Yes, we need to consider the environmental impacts of the carbon footprint generated to bring the required machinery, parts and materials to Malta as well as the process of building it. Claudine Cassar, 3rd year BSc Earth Systems.

It does raise such questions, but given the lack of studies no one can reach any conclusions about the tunnel’s viability as yet. Its long-term effects, such as how it would affect the number of cars crossing between Malta and Gozo, must also be considered. Denis Muscat, MA in English Writing Culture and the Media

Any major project raises environmental issues; that is why environmental experts need to be engaged to conduct studies and provide solutions. This is not the first tunnel ever built so we should learn from any mistakes made. Phillip Mizzi, Master of Arts in Accountancy.

Would it be financially viable given that besides the cost of building it, it must also be maintained?

The project is estimated to cost €200 million to build, and another €2 million per year to maintain. Besides the fee for using the tunnel other factors will determine its feasibility, such as governmental subsidies and future economic growth. Claudine Cassar

It would certainly could make life easier for Gozitan students and workers. But when considering the project’s viability it also needs to be compared with other alternatives, namely the current ferry, a fast ferry to Valletta, investing in Gozo’s infrastructure or a mixture of these. Denis Muscat

Studies so far indicate that the tunnel is feasible. Without doubt there will a massive amount of money invested. This brings into question the opportunity cost of investing the money somewhere else that would be of greater benefit for Gozo. Phillip Mizzi

Do Gozitan students want the tunnel? Would it be good or bad to commercialised Gozo more?

Easier access is probably one of the biggest reasons why Gozitans are for the project as it would significantly reduce travelling time between the islands. The project cannot be simply labelled ‘good’ or ‘bad’ due a wide range of variables but it will certainly raise several new issues that may have not been experienced in the past especially from an environmental perspective. Claudine Cassar

A number of Gozitans seem to want it because they study or work in Malta but live in Gozo and thus want to have easier daily or weekly commute, which is quite understandable. Denis Muscat

The permanent link will make Gozo more accessible for all types of travelers but one must always weigh the cost and benefits of the project. Philip Mizzi

(Compiled by Insite – the student media organisation)