The Valletta local council needs to take a look at the pedestrian crossing in St Elmo Place and take the appropriate action, if it has not done so already.

The pedestrian crossing at lower St Elmo between the end of Merchants Street and Republic Street, a few metres away from Evans Building, is clearly marked for pedestrians. Unfortunately, it is not so visible for motorists. There are no traffic signs or lights or beacons at each end of the crossing, and since it is on the brow of a hilly stretch of road motorists might see it when it is too late.

Fortunately, given the design of the road, the speed of cars is fairly low in this area, but one never knows. It is also fairly dangerous from one direction since it is round a bend.

Tourists and children might lower their guard and feel a false sense of safety at this crossing. But they cross at their own peril. There is one warning traffic sign before the bend when one is approaching from the War Museum, but this sign faced the other side of the road when this photo was taken earlier this year. The sign needs to face oncoming traffic, so it needs to be turned 90 degrees, if it has not been turned already.

The earlier the Valletta local council, or some other appropriate authority, takes action, the better.

Is there any reason why traffic signs and lights at pedestrian crossings are not consistent throughout the island? How do all the different versions of pedestrian crossings conform to the Highway Code and the relevant legislation? Some improvements have been made over the years, but we could do better.

Alfred A. Farrugia

VALLETTA