The government’s recently-issued call for tenders for the introduction of trackless trains in St Paul’s Bay and Rabat, came about 17 years after the publication of the Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, which had identified the need for special types of public transport services that cater specifically for the needs of tourists, this newspaper has learnt.
Trackless trains have long been one of the main tourist attractions in a number of European cities and are usually very popular with visitors.
The tender issued by the government is intended for trackless trains to complement existing public transport services for tourists, as they will provide a unique service along predetermined routes of historic importance or scenic beauty.
Multi-lingual commentary provided on board the vehicle will promote Malta as a tourist destination; out-of-the-ordinary facts about Malta’s culture and heritage will be given en route, together with specific information regarding interesting places.
The operators, who will be obliged to sign an initial 10-year contract, will have to use at least two trackless trains and are expected to start operating them on 1 January.
Six operators have so far expressed an interest in the service after the government made a call for indications of interest.
After that call, the possibilities were considered and research was carried out.
The trackless trains will carry a maximum of 20 passengers and the service will be on offer every hour.
The call for tenders closes on 28 September, and it is expected that contracts will be finalised by the end of October.
The two calls that have been issued cover the St Paul’s Bay area, which includes the Qawra and Bugibba seafronts (from Gillieru Chapel to Salina and back).
The other call covers the Rabat area, including the area beneath the Mdina bastions, as well as Mtarfa, from which point tourists would be able to view Mdina from the other side.
The government is also considering extending the service to areas in the southern part of the island like Cottonera and Marsascala.