Skimming over geology "as we normally do in Malta" can be dangerous not only to the economy but to lives, a top geologist has warned, as the debate over the proposed Malta-Gozo tunnel intensifies. 

"Many are referring to geological faults between Malta and Gozo as the main problem. Of course they are problematic but there are even more serious issues concerning stratigraphy and the geotechnical nature of the subsea rocks.
Geology cannot be simplified to just one issue," Peter Gatt posted on Facebook. 

He said rocks are complex materials unique to the area and they are understood by geologists operating in the area of concern, not engineers from far away lands.

He was speaking a week after Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said a tunnel linking Malta to Gozo looks to be the most viable option in facilitating travel between the two islands.

Gozo business chamber president Michael Grech said there is a "queue" of foreign consortia, spanning Europe and the Far East, interested in taking on the controversial project.