The prospect of an undersea train tunnel linking Spain and Morocco presents an exciting opportunity for seamless and sustainable transportation between Europe and Africa.
Originally proposed in 1979 and now revisited with renewed interest, this ambitious project is gaining traction, particularly in light of the upcoming 2030 World Cup, which spans across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
The envisioned rail tunnel, stretching across the Strait of Gibraltar, would connect Madrid to Casablanca, reducing travel time to approximately five and a half hours. This represents a significant improvement over existing transport options, such as air travel or ferry rides, offering a faster and more efficient connection between the two continents.
The proposed tunnel, spanning 26 miles in total length, with a substantial portion submerged beneath the strait’s waters, has the potential to accommodate up to 12.8 million passengers annually. It would establish the first direct rail link between Europe and Africa, providing an unprecedented level of connectivity between the two regions.
High-level discussions between Spain and Morocco have been ongoing, with both countries actively exploring the feasibility of the project. Spain has allocated funding for feasibility studies, while Morocco has initiated preliminary research into logistics and construction costs. While the exact cost of the project remains unspecified, estimates suggest it could amount to approximately $7.5 billion.
While there is no definitive timeline for the project’s completion, an upcoming strategic meeting between the two nations could provide momentum for its advancement, particularly with the World Cup serving as a potential catalyst. The realisation of this long-awaited initiative has the potential to revolutionise transportation infrastructure and foster closer ties between Europe and Africa.