Straddling the length of Ta’ Cenc is the imposing valley of Mgarr ix-Xini. Beginning from the hinterland of Xewkija village, it gradually widens and deepens into fjord-like dimensions, sloping majestically on the Ghajnsielem side and a sheer cliff beneath Ta’ Cenc. This evergreen valley leads to the enthralling Mgarr ix-Xini bay. The land and sea views are out of this world.
The fjord-like bay is a favourite diving site, with a rich and varied sea life. It is a must for beginners and a sought-out beach by Maltese and foreign visitors alike. The valley itself is replete with history. There is Ghar ix-Xih, which an Arab Sheik used as his countryseat. On both cliff sides, there are the famous cart ruts and other prehistoric remains. Overhanging the cliff to the south, the visitor marvels at a centuries old multi-storey structure, which used to serve as a coal-fired water-pumping station for the whole island. The valley was the first to be dammed up, and the rainwater seeped down a multitude of boreholes. Today, the dam is blocked with rubble and mud, and dairy farm excrement.
All this enchanting landscape is reached via a single country road. The road surface leaves a lot to be desired. Every winter, the rains pelt down the whole length causing potholes, which the Sannat council usually manages to fill by May, but sadly not this year. Dense, overgrown weeds choke the roadside, hardly leaving space for a single carriage.
To make matters worse, Mepa has just sanctioned a new dairy farm right opposite an existing one, both situated at the entrance to Mgarr ix-Xini road. It has become a bottleneck, as it seems Mepa has allowed both dairy farms to encroach on the road. It’s a nightmare for vehicle users just to navigate through this muddy, steamy patch, with cows, goats and pigs straying into the road and farm machinery parked alongside.
The Gozo minister has expressed the hope for Gozo to be an eco island. Some hopes, indeed. For a start, my dear minister, be so kind as to offer moderately serviceable roads to the island’s beaches, at least until we are able to travel on air-cushioned vehicles.
Benny Saliba
XAGHRA