Transport Minister Joe Mizzi this morning revealed details of a gradual reform for Malta's public transport system, aimed to once and for all bring the system into shape after decades of problems.

Minister Mizzi said that the new bus routes, which will come into effect on 30 September, are a result of consultations with various local councils as well as 3,500 suggestions received from the public. Minister Mizzi said the new routes are based on what the people have suggested, and are tailor made to what each locality needs. 

He stated that one of the biggest problems with the public transport was that there were not enough buses to meet demands. The total number of buses would have increased by 140 during the course of the summer, with 40 buses added in July, another 40 in August and 60 to be added in September.

The changes are being implemented in phases, said Minister Mizzi, with 4 phases in all. He also mentioned that this year saw the biggest increase in people using public transport, an increase of 11% when compared with the previous year. 

Some 3 million kilometres are to be added in total to the overall bus route coverage, with 24 kilometers being added each week according to Mr Mizzi. Many of the proposals for new bus routes are amendments on pre existing routes, while some routes are brand new altogether, such as one catering for Marsa, Paola, Cospicua and Vittoriosa. An additional new route will cover Birkirkara to Valletta. In addition to this, the frequency of buses shall be increased. 

On being asked about how to measure success in public transport, Mr Mizzi stated one must do this through measuring the shift towards public transport from private. He also added that through upgrading the system gradually, this will ensure a more successful and efficiently run transport system.

Photo/video -  Jonathan Borg