The Bridge’s contact points with the ground are not situated on active faults. The geology of the Strait of Messina has been thoroughly studied, with all faults in the area carefully identified. Based on geoseismotectonic studies, the contact points of the Strait of Messina Bridge were deliberately positioned to avoid active faults.

Regarding the Cannitello and Pezzo faults listed in the ITHACA Catalog, it is important to note that the Inventory of Active and Capable Faults in Italy (ITHACA, compiled by ISPRA) is a bibliographic synthesis and not a definitive source. As ISPRA itself indicates, the reliability of these fault identifications ranges from fair to low. While the ITHACA Catalog can serve as an initial reference for the pre-design phase, it is not a substitute for site-specific investigations, which are essential for major infrastructure projects. In accordance with ISPRA recommendations, such projects need to be preceded by in-depth field investigations through site surveys and examinations. Stretto di Messina has conducted extensive geological studies throughout all design phases, including the latest updates in response to the 2024 EIA Commission requests.                                                            The Cannitello-Gioia Tauro and Pezzo faults (IDs 37400 and 37401 in the database) were identified based on studies from 1983 and 1994. These have since been superseded by far more detailed research carried out on behalf of Stretto di Messina during the preliminary and final bridge design phases, and recently updated, involving nearly 400 geological, geotechnical, and seismic investigations, along with extensive field surveys. As a result, the existence of these faults, as originally described, has been reconsidered based on more precise data collected during the various planning phases. In conclusion, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that the Calabria-side tower foundations are located on active fault systems. This has been thoroughly examined and ruled out in all bridge design documents, from the preliminary studies to the latest updates. The project fully complies with the Guidelines for Land Management in Areas Affected by Active Faults and Capable Faults issued by the Civil Protection Agency.