Malta-Gozo tunnel geological studies to be carried out by Malta university

The University of Malta will be carrying out the studies into the sub-sea tunnel which would connect Gozo to Malta.

Transport Malta has signed an agreement with the University of Malta for the latter to conduct geological and geophysical investigations. The scientific investigations will include both desktop and field studies, passive seismic measurements, bathymetric mapping, and a seismic study. 

The final results of these investigations will also incorporate the results from the recently published Investigative Coring tender.

These results will in turn generate a Terrestrial Baseline study which will include geological, geomorphological and hydrogeological maps. It will also include a digital elevation model, cross-sectional profiles and hydrological models.

The University of Malta will conduct a Marine Baseline study, including a geological model of topography, stratigraphy, structure, geological, geophysical and tectonic properties of the study area.

University rector Alfred Vella said that it was important for the university to to produce studies that can be implemented for the benefit of society at large. The agreement attests to the strategy that the University plays a key role in projects of national importance such as the sub-sea tunnel between Malta and Gozo, Vella said.

“Transport Malta is very pleased to have the University of Malta on board for this exciting project,” TM chairman James Piscopo said.

“We look forward to collaborating together in enhancing and expanding our knowledge, whilst gaining unprecedented information that will critically help us in delivering a project that will be of social and economic benefit not only for Gozo but our Country as a whole.”

Transport Malta and the University of Malta expressed confidence that the collaboration will provide a broad range of knowledge and technology transfer opportunities for the two entities.