Strait of Gibraltar Bridge: Engineering Challenges Thwart Spain-Morocco Connection

First of all, the characteristics of the seabed constitute a major obstacle. In some places, the depth reaches 900 meters, making it almost impossible to fix the pillars that would support the structure. This technical difficulty is comparable to that of the Channel Tunnel, which connects northern France to southern United Kingdom, but the sea currents of the Strait of Gibraltar are much stronger, which would also compromise the viability of the pillars.

Moreover, the cost of such an infrastructure would be exorbitant. According to estimates, it would take several billion euros for its construction and maintenance. Not to mention the potential damage to marine ecosystems and biodiversity in the region.

Even if the Spanish and Moroccan governments managed to reach an agreement to carry out the work and set aside disputes over the sovereignty and control of the bridge’s borders, the construction of such a structure would remain a considerable technical and financial challenge that neither of the two countries seems ready to take on.

For now, the ferry remains the only way to cross the Strait of Gibraltar. And this should be the case for many more years.