Between January and March this year, Malta Public Transport reports to have carried over 9 million passengers representing a 15% increase when compared to the estimated number of passengers carried in the first quarter of last year. This increase is reflected across all customer segments.

“These are very positive results. Since we completed the changes to the route network in December, we have focused our resources on improving the quality and reliability of our bus service” explained Konrad Pulé, General Manager of Malta Public Transport.

“We are able to measure the performance of each route more effectively thanks to the technology we have invested in, and also thanks to our people who are responsible for monitoring the service.” Over half the population of Malta has a tallinja card, which is a major success. In fact 70% of the elderly population have a concession tallinja card that entitles them to heavily reduced fares. Due to the success of the tallinja card, there were around three million less paper tickets printed on board the buses during these three months when compared to last year. “85% of our passengers continue to use one of our tallinja cards instead of paper tickets. Apart from the improved boarding time, this reduction in ticket printing contributes positively towards our environment” continued Pulé.

Malta Public Transport also reported a reduction of 30% in the number of queries and complaints received in between January and March. This is a result of various measures including the changes that were implemented to improve the service towards Mater Dei Hospital and University, and a new website that was launched earlier this year.

“The next quarter will feature further improvements to the bus service particularly in the San Gwann area, the introduction of our real time mobile APP, and the arrival of a new training simulator for our bus drivers. We will also be gearing up for the summer service with the arrival of 33 new Euro 6 buses. This is all part of our commitment to improving the overall customer experience for our bus users” concluded Pulé.

TM statement

Transport Malta welcomed the marked increase in public transport patronage, the improvement in service offered, the increased reliability and better access for information to clients.  “Commuters are reaping the benefits of an improved route network,” it said.

TM encouraged MPT to remain focused on further improving the service, continue investing in new technology and plan ahead for the demanding summer months.  “The summer season traditionally welcomes numerous visitors and hence a bigger number of bus passengers.  Transport Malta augurs that the experience gained last summer, the strengthened bus fleet and other improvements will help provide a better experience for all bus users. Transport Malta will remain vigilant and insist on an improved quality service.”