As part of its ongoing project to evaluate, secure and consolidate the stability of the old stone bridge at Triq il-Mistra, linking Xemxija and Mellieha, Transport Malta will be carrying infrastructural works in one of the road’s lanes, over the bridge, tonight and during the next few days, it said in a statement.
These works are urgently required to ensure the stability of the bridge and as part of the preparations for the eventual upgrade of the road above it, the main route to Mellieha and to the Gozo ferry terminal at Cirkewwa. They will be carried out in the next few days, whilst the north-bound lane of the road is currently closed to traffic as another part of this route, Triq il-Pwales at Xemxija, is being rebuilt and resurfaced. This will avoid disrupting vehicle flows twice for separate works along the same route.
The north-bound lane of Triq il-Mistra, from Xemxija to Mellieha, will be closed to traffic as from this evening, so that the works can be carried out without compromising workers’ safety. The road is already closed in this direction further south, due to the ongoing road works at Xemxija. Public transport buses and other heavy vehicles will still be able to travel towards Mellieha through Xemxija and Triq il-Mistra by following the directions of the Transport Malta officials on site.
The south-bound lane of Triq il-Mistra, from Mellieha to Xemxija and St Paul’s Bay, will remain open at all times. However, commuters are encouraged to avoid delays by using one of two alternative routes. Transport Malta officials will be on site along these routes to support road users as necessary. North-bound vehicles are encouraged to follow the diversion route from the St Paul’s Bay Bypass, towards Triq Ghajn Tuffieha to the road going through Limbordin and Il-Mizieb. This road is temporarily open in this south-bound direction only. Vehicles travelling in the other direction, from Cirkewwa, Ghadira and Mellieha towards Xemxija and St Paul’s Bay should use Triq il-Mellieha towards Manikata and Ghajn Tuffieha.