The Marsa tidal lane has been removed in preparation for the new Marsa Junction Project which started roughly a month ago, according to the Ministry for Transport and Infrastructure.

The automatic bollards which were inserted to ease the flow of traffic congestion and to maximise the use of the road, was a temporary measure according to the ministry. The tidal lane worked by changing the direction of one lane to increase capacity in one direction.

However according to reports received by this newsroom, at some point this week the bollards were removed and concrete was placed over the spots where they used to stand.

Contacted by The Malta Independent, the ministry explained that the Marsa Junction Project is a longer term project and far more effective solution since each main route will have its dedicated carriage, eliminating crossover traffic and the traffic lights at the Marsa Junction.

The removal of the automated bollards from the tidal lane is in line with the preparations for the next phases of this project, the ministry confirmed.

The project which was officially launched on 13 November 2017, with an investment of over €70 million, began more than a month and half in advance. At the launch Minister Ian Borg had explained how such a junction will affect 8,000 vehicles per hour on a daily basis.

The project is to be divided in three phases. The first phase which has already started was the demolition of a number of structures which will no longer be used after this project is complete. During this phase, maximum possible usage will be made of the created space to widen carriageways and facilitate travelling in the area, even while works on the project are ongoing.

The whole project, will include the widening of a number of different points in the main artery, as well as the building of seven flyover structures, and will lead to the direction of traffic in seven different directions, with the complete elimination of traffic lights and a considerable reduction in time lost in traffic for all those who drive to or from the south of Malta. The new infrastructure of this junction will also include new and safer facilities for road users who make use of alternative means - cyclists, public transport users, and pedestrians.

The new plan will also add parking for over 350 vehicles with a park and ride system, to continue incentivising the modal shift necessary for the country. Air pollution in the area will also go down considerably, and energy efficient lighting will also be used, according the ministry.