Malta’s ongoing traffic congestion problem has long been one of the country’s most pressing issues.
Way back in 2014, a public service official rose to stardom when she famously stated that “heavy traffic is only a perception”.
Since then, plenty of studies continued to confirm the obvious – that the traffic situation remains a prime public concern. The latest of these studies was MISCO’s June 2023 survey in which 87% of respondents had expressed concern about traffic.
Since 2023, the situation has definitely not improved but become more acute.
The latest trigger to this debate is a proposal where people would be offered €25,000 to give up their license for five years.
Clearly, we continue to live in the age of incentives, as if quick fixes and short-term solutions will suffice. This approach fails to address the underlying issues, serving only as another temporary measure that highlights the absence of long-term vision and the political will to implement meaningful actions to tackle the root of the problem.
Incentivizing individuals to abandon their cars might reduce the number of vehicles on the road temporarily, but it does not alter the root causes of traffic congestion. To effectively tackle this problem, Malta needs to look beyond financial handouts and focus on systemic changes that will make alternatives to driving more appealing and practical for the public.
While Malta has made strides with free public transport, there is still much more to be done. Greater investment in frequent and reliable bus services, especially in underserved areas, is essential. Introducing rapid transit options such as a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system or light rail could help commuters move faster and more efficiently, reducing the need for personal vehicles.
Integrating these modes of transport with park-and-ride facilities would make it easier for people to switch from driving to using public transport, particularly for those travelling longer distances.
Improvement and expansion of public transport systems such as cycling infrastructures is another often overlooked but highly effective solution. Building more protected bike lanes, creating safer intersections for cyclists, and implementing bike-sharing programs would encourage more people to choose bicycles over cars.
Increasing “car-free” zones in popular areas, as seen in many European cities, could make a significant difference in reducing the number of vehicles in the most congested areas.
The recent proposal by the Nationalist Party for a fifth ferry between Valletta and Ċirkewwademonstrates a positive step toward addressing the challenges posed by Malta’s limited transport options. A commercial ferry service should definitely help alleviate congestion on the roads leading to Ċirkewwa.
This proposal could potentially also support the promotion of night logistics, an idea once suggested by transport and logistics company Express Trailers whereby businesses could be incentivised to shift their deliveries and operations to nighttime hours instead of peak hours.
Such proposals and other similar ones, however, need to be part of a broader integrated strategy that includes improvements to sea, road, and air transport.
Ultimately, Malta needs a forward-looking transportation policy that goes beyond quick fixes. Some difficult decisions might also be needed such as reducing fuel subsidies, increasing the costs involved in using a car and closing off more village cores to traffic.
Moreover, the planning of new residential and commercial developments should be done with a focus on creating walkable cities, well-connected by sustainable transport systems.
It’s time for a comprehensive, strategic and futuristic approach to the island’s traffic issue. It will take strong political will and some difficult decisions. Will we get there?
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