It is to be expected.

Almost half the readers who have so far taken part in an online poll on The Malta Independent website have indicated traffic as the most pressing problem the government should address in the budget for 2018.

The traffic situation has deteriorated badly in the last few years, and weather conditions as well as the opening of schools added to drivers’ woes during the past week.

Traffic was chosen by 46% of the readers who took part in the online poll, which closes on Monday.

As at 2pm on Saturday, the second most important issue is the environment, with 19% of the participants ticking this particular box.

Social services are a distant third with 10% of preferences.

Solidifying the economy is fourth with 8%, followed by education and Air Malta on 6% each, health was chosen by 4% while energy by only 1% of the participants.

You may cast your vote here